Reducing the Summer Slide

Arboro Empowered
Jun 19
2 min read

Updated: Jun 23

Research Snapshot

My first teaching job was at Brooks Global Studies. At the time, it was "Brooks Global Studies Extended-Year Magnet School." A mouthful, I know. We had about a month off in the summer, and the point was to minimize the "summer slide." No, it's not a type of warm-weather playground equipment. This slide is a regression, or sliding back, of learning that can take place over the summer. When students are keeping their skills fresh every day in class, they are making tangible progress in their achievement. When summer hits, the way they spend their time makes all the difference in what happens to that progress.

The good news is that students can flip the slide into a climb! Experiences that create memories students can use to make connections when they read are endlessly valuable. There are plenty of ways to keep skills fresh in fun ways using everyday experiences like cooking, discussing schedules, and exercising. Summer is also the perfect time to seamlessly practice academic skills in authentic ways - think about all the math and writing that can go into setting up a good old-fashioned lemonade stand!

Read on for a three-part research collection related to the topic of Summer Slide. If your child ended the last school year a bit behind, we recommend academic coaching (tutoring) to set them up for success as they kick off the next school year. Don't worry- at Arboro, it's lots of fun thanks to our amazing team. Fill out this form to get started.

Sprouts and Buds: Ages 5-Teens

1. Summer Learning Loss: What We Know and What We're Learning

This article from NWEA provides a comprehensive overview of recent research on summer learning loss.

2. Tips for Preventing 'Summer Slide'

Practical advice for parents to keep their children academically engaged during the summer.

3. Beware the Summer Slide

Two University of Miami professors provide tips on how parents can help their children continue to learn during the summer and be ready for the school year.