Prevent summer slide for young students

When school lets out for summer, many children look forward to swimming, traveling, and playing outside. But for students in kindergarten through second grade, those carefree months can come with a hidden risk: the summer slide. This term refers to the loss of academic skills and knowledge over summer break, especially in reading and math. Research shows that young children can lose up to two months of reading progress if they don’t engage in consistent learning during the summer. 

Here are 6 ways families can help their children stay ahead.

1. Make Reading a Daily Routine

One of the most effective ways to combat the summer slide is by making reading a part of your child’s daily life. Children in K–2 are developing foundational literacy skills such as decoding, phonemic awareness, and comprehension. To support this, create a cozy reading space at home and stock it with a variety of age-appropriate books (both fiction and nonfiction). Read with your child every day, even if just for 15–20 minutes. Take turns reading pages or characters, and talk about the stories together to build comprehension and vocabulary. 

Libraries also often offer summer reading programs with incentives and reading logs, which can help keep kids motivated and excited.

2. Keep Writing and Math Skills Sharp

Reading isn’t the only skill that needs reinforcement. Encourage your child to write regularly, whether through keeping a summer journal, sending postcards to family, or making grocery lists with you. Writing strengthens spelling, sentence structure, and fine motor skills, which are all crucial for K–2 learners.

To keep math skills fresh, incorporate numbers into daily routines. Count steps, read numbers on street signs, or play simple board games that require adding or subtracting. You can also use cooking to teach measurement or create a “store” at home where children use play money to buy and sell items. These real-life activities turn math into fun and memorable learning experiences.

3. Use Structured Literacy Resources

Structured resources can be a helpful supplement to informal learning. Many publishers and educational companies offer summer workbooks, decodable readers, or online programs aligned with science of reading principles. These materials can help reinforce phonics, fluency, and comprehension in a systematic and engaging way. Aim for short, consistent practice sessions of no more than 20–30 minutes a day so that learning remains enjoyable rather than overwhelming.

If your child was working with a phonics or reading intervention program during the school year, ask their teacher if there are specific areas to focus on over the summer. Reinforcing those same patterns and skills can make a big difference when school resumes.
 

4. Turn Everyday Experiences Into Learning Opportunities

Summer is the perfect time to turn everyday life into a classroom. Go on nature walks and talk about what you see, hear, and smell. Start a backyard garden and let your child measure how much the plants grow each week. Visit museums, farms, or local attractions and have your child write or draw about their experience afterward. Even watching a kid-friendly documentary or educational show can lead to a discussion or follow-up activity.

Learning doesn’t have to feel like school. In fact, it’s often more effective when it’s playful and connected to real life. By being intentional and present, caregivers can help children build curiosity, language, and critical thinking skills all summer long.

5. Maintain a Light Learning Routine

Children thrive on routine, even in the summer months. Setting aside a regular time each day for learning, whether it's in the morning before play or after lunch, helps create a healthy balance between relaxation and academic maintenance. Use calendars, stickers, or reward systems to make progress visible and fun. Also, if you’re traveling or on vacation, bring books, journals, or a tablet with educational games to keep your child engaged on the go.

6. Stay Connected With Teachers and Peers

Some schools offer summer bridge programs, reading challenges, or access to learning platforms even after school ends. Reach out to your child’s teacher to see what might be available. If not, consider organizing a small book club or learning pod with a few friends or neighbors. Children are more likely to stay engaged when they’re having fun with peers.

Final Words

Preventing the summer slide doesn’t mean sacrificing the joy and freedom of summer; it means weaving meaningful learning into everyday experiences in a way that feels natural and fun. By incorporating daily reading, practicing writing and math, using structured literacy resources, and turning everyday activities into learning moments, families can help children maintain and even build upon their academic skills. A light but consistent routine, along with support from teachers and peers, ensures that students stay connected and confident.

SOURCE Henderson Public Relations, LLC