Many students see summer as a relaxing break from the stresses of homework and school.  Indeed, children need time to be exactly what they are – children.  Research shows, however, that while gaps in student achievement remain relatively constant during the school year, the gaps widen significantly during the summer.  This phenomenon where young people lose academic skills over the summer is known as the Summer Learning Loss.

Studies report that youth typically lose about two months of math skills over the summer.  A digression in reading skills is also common during the summer, particularly among low-income youth.  Over time these reading and math losses can add up.

To combat the summer learning loss, it is important for parents to engage their children in summer learning activities.  Reading over the summer is a fun and inexpensive way for children to exercise their brains and grow intellectually.  The Brewton Public Library is a wonderful local resource that offers an abundance of material for any interest area.

Additionally, enrichment opportunities abound for students to be exposed to things that are not part of their everyday lives. Taking your child to a zoo, museum, or minor league baseball game are excellent and enjoyable ways to enhance your child’s personal experiences.  Summer plays, concerts, and the beach are more examples of enriching activities.  Not only will these activities assist children in growing into well-rounded adults, but they also facilitate families spending quality time together.

As you plan the remainder of your summer, recognize that enjoyable and enriching summer learning experiences can be an important part of your child’s development.