entertains, educates & inspires marriages
Find Marriage Answers
kids
10 Ways to Prevent Summer Learning Loss
Don’t let summer brain drain set in. Instead, put these tips to work and make summer a better time for learning.


Depositphoto
Don't let all that hard work during the year slide backwards during the summer months.


Typically, children receive more instruction due to small class sizes during the summer, which is great for boosting learning potential.”
Summer is upon us once again and students are looking forward to time off from school. However, according to the National Summer Learning Association, all students, no matter what age or grade level, will experience a learning loss over summer break if they are not engaging in educational activities. Fortunately, summer learning loss can be prevented. Here are 10 ways you can help your kids learn this summer.

1. Summer school. Summer school and summertime camps may seem like no fun (or all fun and games), but they definitely help kids get ahead academically and can prepare older kids for college. Typically, children receive more instruction due to small class sizes during the summer, which is great for boosting learning potential.

2. Outdoor camp. When summertime approaches kids are ready to get outdoors and enjoy the weather. With outdoor school, your children can experience all things outdoors and partake in valuable lessons. Not only are outdoor camps linked to better grades, but they also reduce children’s stress levels, increase motivation and are linked to better health.

3. Online courses. If your children have a busy summer schedule, consider online courses. Web-based classes can be done at home, no classroom required. These convenient courses propel your children forward, helping them get ready for the next school year. Many parents choose specialized classes to boost comprehension and specific skills. If your children need help in a certain subject, online resources and games such as Education.com, Opposite Ocean and SumDog are all great places to start.

4. Computer games. At first you might be reluctant to believe that computer and video games can be used as learning tools. Despite the bad wrap they get in the media sometimes, they can be used to stimulate learning. According to research from the Journal of Education and Health, they are great for helping children understand goal setting. This summer, learning can take place almost anywhere with games on your tablet or smartphone. Consider investing in a smartphone like the Samsung Galaxy Note5 for your children because it has a large display and comes with the S Pen, so they can take notes, work on their handwriting and play games even while on vacation.

5. Day camp. Day camp provides the traditional camp experience for campers who are anxious or too young for sleepaway camps, according to the American Camp Association. These camps help build the foundation that’s needed for successful, long-term learning experiences while your kids are away from home. Not only will they learn valuable skills, they also will learn how to interact with others, developing healthy social habits. Visit the American Camp Association to learn more about day camps and summer camp programs.

6. Book clubs for kids. Sure mom, you may have your own version of "book club," but rest assured that children’s book clubs are totally different. These clubs have soared in popularity over the past few years and are a great way to boost summer learning. There are many different types of kid-friendly book clubs, including mother-daughter clubs, father-son clubs and more. By spending time reading with your children, you can help them develop a love of books as well as important language and literacy skills. If you want to start your own kid-friendly book club in your community, check out the helpful online resources that are available from PBS Parents.

7. Science camp. If your children have a love for all things science, from outerspace to the deep oceans, foster their learning and consider science camp this summer. These camps enable your children to get out in the field and do their own research, giving them a better understanding of what it takes to be a scientist. In addition to the learning that takes place, your children will learn self-confidence and important communication skills while at camp. The nonprofit corporation Science Camps of America provides a plethora of information about choosing the best camps, no matter where you live.

8. Creative writing classes. Children with a love for the written word will enjoy a summer creative writing course. These online and in-person courses are great for developing existing strengths and fostering new skills. Plus, creative writing classes may give your children the boost of confidence they need to enter an essay contest. Oftentimes, there are prizes and scholarships that come with these contests, so keep an eye out on a site like Scholarships.com.

9. Museum visits. Taking a day to explore your local museums is not just a great way to spend time with your kids on the weekend, it’s a valuable learning opportunity, too. Whether you choose to visit a history or music museum there’s ample opportunity to learn. Younger kids will learn best from hands-on exhibits while older kids will appreciate more complex and detailed displays. MuseumsUSA.org can connect you with a list of museums in your area.

10. Music lessons. Many experts believe that children who are exposed to music have higher verbal competency, better developed auditory and motor skills, and the aptitude for problem solving and reasoning. These are all valuable skills that your children can take into adulthood, so sign them up for a music class or private lessons this summer.

Lauren Topor is a lifestyle writer based in the Southwest who spends her days writing about food and health, fashion, fitness and entertainment.


Over 1 million couples turn to Hitched for expert marital advice every year. Sign up now for our newsletter & get exclusive weekly content that will entertain, educate and inspire your marriage.





Pin It

Connect with us:        

Leave a Comment

Over 1 million couples turn to Hitched for expert marital advice every year. Sign up now for our newsletter & get exclusive weekly content that will entertain, educate and inspire your marriage.



The Formula for a Magical Union: 10 Tips for Bliss

Fighting Fair: The 7 Secrets to a Successful Relationship.

How to Keep the Magic Alive: 5 Ways to Energize Your Marriage

3 Ways to Stop Feeding Emotional Eating

You’ve Got the Power: 4 Ways to Embody Courage and Confidence







Get Featured