Summer Learning

When you think about Summer Learning, what do you think of first? Which aspects of Summer Learning are important, which are essential, and which ones can you take or leave? You be the judge.

Summer time is a break for children from lessons, homework and the everyday structure
that school provides. But if you let the children stray too much from this routine during
their summer break it can make the transition to school harder in the fall.

You do not have to make the children sit down every day to learn a lesson but you can
include summertime activities that are fun and are centered on learning. You can
purchase workbooks for children that are meant to be preparatory for the next grade level
at school and they are a great stepping stone. But you can have a conversation with the
child’s teacher at the end of the school year to determine what they need to work on and
choose some activities that will help develop those skills.

For young children entering kindergarten count and name everything around you. Read
and spell out street signs to help with letter recognition. Independence is the most
important skill you can teach children entering school for the first time. Encourage them
to clean up after themselves and put on their own coat and shoes just like they will at
school.

For older children, use little chores or errands and learning tools. Have your child write
down your grocery list as you go through the cupboards. Have them pay for things with
their own money or figure out how much money they need to save for a special item.

School is a big part of a child’s life and you want them to be successful. Remember that
taking a break is part of that so don’t overwhelm them with learning in the summer. But
don’t let them forget the important skills that they worked hard to learn the year before.
Continued reading through the summer is the best preparation.

Hopefully the sections above have contributed to your understanding of Summer Learning. Share your new understanding about Summer Learning with others. They’ll thank you for it.