Summer Prep: How to Keep Your Child Smart and Sharp During Break!

As the academic calendar winds down and summer beckons, many parents become increasingly concerned about the phenomenon known as the “summer slide.” This term describes the tendency for students to lose some of the skills they have acquired during the school year, particularly in areas like math and reading. Educational research indicates that students can lose approximately two to three months of progress during the summer months (Cooper et al., 1996; Downey et al., 2004), which can adversely affect their confidence and academic performance in the new school year. This is particularly critical in today’s educational landscape, where maintaining a consistent learning trajectory is essential (National Summer Learning Association, n.d.).

At K12 Scholars, we recognize that summer provides both challenges and opportunities. It is crucial to maintain an engaging and supportive educational environment, allowing children to reinforce their learning while exploring new interests in an enjoyable way.

The Importance of Summer Learning

The summer months grant us a unique opportunity to bridge educational gaps and promote continuous learning, which can foster greater confidence and curiosity in children (Entwisle et al., 2001). During this crucial time, parents and guardians can implement a variety of strategies to keep their children intellectually stimulated, reducing the potential effects of summer learning loss.

Summer Programs at K12 Scholars

At K12 Scholars, we are pleased to offer a myriad of summer programs tailored to different age groups and academic disciplines. Whether your child needs support in mathematics, English, science, or history, our experienced educators are equipped to provide personalized instruction. Our learning centers located in Long Island and Flushing are dedicated to cultivating a passion for learning, making education both enjoyable and engaging.

Maximize Summer Learning with Fun Activities

1. Reading Challenges

Setting up a summer reading challenge can inspire your child to explore various genres and authors. Consider rewarding them for completing a certain number of books or for reading books from a range of genres, as research suggests that engagement with diverse literature can enhance comprehension and critical thinking skills (Allington, 2006). K12 Scholars has curated a selection of resources to help parents choose appropriate reading material.

2. STEM Projects

Hands-on science experiments or math challenges can greatly enhance a child’s engagement and foster critical thinking skills. For instance, simple experiments using household items can illuminate scientific concepts in an exciting way (Rennie & Jarvis, 2015).

3. Arts and Crafts

Integrating art into subjects like history can create memorable learning experiences. Encouraging your child to create projects inspired by historical events or figures not only nurtures creativity but also aids retention of key concepts (Eisner, 2002).

4. Prep for Future Tests

If your child is preparing for standardized tests such as the SAT or ACT, summer is an opportune time to begin their preparation. Our tailored SAT/ACT courses are designed to alleviate pressure and enhance performance, equipping students with essential test-taking strategies.

5. Online Resources

Leveraging digital platforms can keep your child engaged in learning. Our website, k12scholars.com, provides access to a wealth of materials and resources, allowing families to incorporate learning into everyday activities.

Tailored Academic Support

Recognizing that each child has unique learning preferences, we at K12 Scholars champion personalized education. Our dedicated team of tutors conducts assessments to determine your child’s strengths and areas that may require additional attention. Enrolling your child in our