Like muscles, the brain needs rest and exercise to keep it healthy. Strengthening and reinforcing a student’s knowledge during summer enriches their learning and keeps them on track when they return to school.

Studies show that about two months of reading and two and a half months of math skills can be lost over a single summer. Two to three hours per week are needed to prevent summer learning loss.

Parents and caregivers play a key role in filling the gaps for children over the summer. Children are more likely to progress their learning when they engage in activities that require them to apply what they’ve learned.

Make reading consistent, even for a few minutes, and encourage them to talk about what they’ve read. Or ask them to help prepare a recipe (which can also help with math skills). Libraries systems throughout the county, offer summer reading programs incentivizing children, and even adults, to read to receive varying awards.

Incorporate writing as part of the daily routine. Children can write notes for the family when leaving to run errands or make signs around the house. If you’re traveling during the summer break, encourage your child to keep a journal or write postcards to family members.

Introduce card games, such as Go Fish or Uno, to keep math fun. For middle school and high school youth, consider creating a budget with them for different activities or souvenirs.

Keep learning activities hands-on. Young children need activities that promote sensory play and motor development. Have them practice holding writing utensils and cutting shapes and lines with scissors.

Students can engage in various educational activities outdoors as well. From traditional summer day camp to leadership programs, there’s something to everyone at Walden West. Kids who attend Walden West build community, learn the magic of nature, become leaders, and have fun.

Here are a few resources you can find locally and online to continue your child’s learning: