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The Summer Slide Scaries

Have you heard of summer slide?

Summer slide or summer learning loss is the documented phenomenon of students forgetting much of their learning from the previous year. Students’ brains work hard during the school year to learn and retain information, but often forget much of it once they’re in “summer mode”.

How are we fighting summer slide?

At A+, we don’t do summer slide. In fact, our students grow academically throughout the summer- sometimes by a whole year! With consistent attendance throughout the summer, students still have structured educational time and can spend the rest of the week on their summer adventures.

How can you fight summer slide at home?

Each student is different and may need different approaches to summer learning, but here are a few ways to combat summer slide throughout the week:

1. Read for a few minutes a day

Academics Plus has a wonderful library for students, and the A+ staff has great recommendations! We have books of all levels, including graphic novels, that students are welcome to borrow. Or, if you are able to visit your local library, pick out a book with your student and take turns reading out loud.

2. Play educational games

There are many online games (check some out here), but there are also many math games you can play with cards or dominoes. Here are some card games to play together – Make 10 is one of our favorites for practice thinking outside the box.

3. Get creative

One thing that is often left out of the summer learning loss conversation is the creative aspect! Art and crafts let students be creative, problem solve, and get a sense of accomplishment with their finished product. In the summer, this could be as easy as drawing with sidewalk chalk in the morning or having students journal about their day and draw a picture to accompany their words. And don’t forget: the A+ art gallery is at the end of July. Students can bring in artworks they made throughout the summer!