Finding a good summer learning plan can be highly beneficial. Many students, particularly those with learning differences, experience declining academic skills and knowledge retention during the summer break from school. Students can quickly disengage from learning during summer without proper guidance and support. While summer learning loss can be challenging to quantify, most teachers will tell you that a group of children in any class will always struggle at the beginning of the school year. In contrast, many others arrive at their classrooms prepared to pick up where they left off (and a few will even have spent their summer learning the skills of the next school year). At Strategies for Learning, we are ready to help you use your summer break to ensure your child is prepared for the demands of the next grade.

Why Does Summer Learning Loss Happen?

Many factors can contribute to summer learning loss, including a lack of access to educational resources, reduced academic engagement, and differing opportunities for educational enrichment. Some students may not have the same access to books, educational tools, or structured learning activities during the summer months. The absence of daily academic routines and teacher interactions is often enough to lead to decreased skills and academic performance. The clinicians at Strategies for Learning can help you develop a solid summer plan to increase your child’s knowledge and prepare for the demands of the next school year.

What are the Benefits of Summer Learning?

Summer learning loss can undermine students’ confidence and motivation, making it more challenging for your child to succeed academically in the upcoming school year. Our clinicians are experts in increasing student motivation and achievement. Summertime is ideal for “leveling up” academic skills and gaining confidence before the new school year begins. Without the demands and stresses of the school day, student focus is increased, and there is more time to fill in gaps from the previous year. While engaging in academic practice with your own child during a school break can be challenging, our clinicians are ready to work with your child in fun and engaging ways. At SfL, we motivate our students to learn and practice the skills necessary to help them feel confident and successful at the beginning of a new school year.

What Does a Good Summer Learning Plan Look Like?

Summer learning loss prevention requires collaboration among educators, families, and communities. Attending summer enrichment programs that provide academic instruction, hands-on activities, and opportunities for social and emotional development can help your child get ahead.

Increased access to books, educational materials, and digital resources during the summer months can also help mitigate the effects of summer learning loss. Public libraries, schools, and community organizations can provide excellent summer reading and learning initiatives. While family engagement in children’s learning during the break helps prevent the loss of skills during the summer months, we are here to help so you can focus on the fun! Summer learning loss poses a significant challenge to students, particularly those with special needs. By understanding the causes and consequences of summer learning loss and seeking dynamic summertime educational opportunities, educators and families can work together during the break to ensure all children can thrive academically.

Written by Stephanie Broytman, M.A.

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