After a long school year, your child is probably excited to spend the summer relaxing and free of school stress. But as parents, we want to make sure our children don’t fall behind and forget everything they learned throughout the year. So what can you do to help your child retain the skills they learned this year? Here is what parents need to know about summer slide and how reading can help minimize the risk of summer regression:
What Is Summer Slide?
Summer slide is the term used to refer to the regression experienced by students during the summer. Most teachers expect students to return to school in the fall with some level of regression in reading and math skills. Teachers then have to make up for this regression during the new school year. It has long been estimated that students lose between 1 and 3 months-worth of school-year skills during the summer. The 2015 MAP Growth Norms Study found that between third and fourth grade, students lost about 20% of their reading and 27% of their math school-year gains. If those numbers sound concerning, you’ll be even more concerned about middle school. During the summer between seventh and eighth grade, students lost about 36% of their reading and 50% of their math school-year gains. Some research also suggests there is a connection between socioeconomic class, summer slide, and the achievement gap.
How Reading During The Summer Prevents Summer Slide
One of the best ways to prevent summer slides is to encourage your child to read regularly throughout the summer. During the summer, children should continue to read for a minimum of 20 minutes every day. This is the same expectation they have during the school year. Some teachers and schools provide books to children at the end of the school year to help get them started. You should also help encourage your child to read throughout the summer. You can encourage kids by taking them to the library, reading together, and listening to audiobooks in the car. Your child may also be encouraged if they see you read regularly. You should also regularly discuss what your child likes and doesn’t like about the books they are reading. You can also ask them what they learned from the book. Doing this will help their review and comprehension skills. You could also have your child write a summary of the book or chapter they read to practice writing skills.
Annual Wellness Visits Are Important For A Successful School Year
Your child’s success in school directly impacts their overall growth and development. This is why their pediatrician discusses concerns about success in school during your child’s annual well-child visit. To schedule your child’s annual well-child exam with one of our board-certified pediatricians, contact Children’s Medical Center today. We have four convenient office locations in Palm Harbor, Westchase, Trinity, and Lutz. We also have extended hours and are open 7 days a week! We look forward to helping your child prepare for their next school year!
