Amidst the chaos and financial strain of arranging summer child care, parents have another concern to add to their list: summer learning loss. Also known as the “summer slide,” this phenomenon occurs when children experience a decline in academic skills during the summer break, leaving them stagnant or even behind when they return to school. Paul G. Fitchett, a professor at Auburn University, states that there is compelling evidence supporting the existence of summer learning loss, with some studies suggesting that up to a month of learning can be lost during this period.
With the longest summer break many children and educators have experienced due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the attention on summer learning loss has increased. Sally G. Parish, from the University of Memphis, explains that this concept has been around for a century, but it has gained greater significance in the current educational landscape. However, parents should not envision their children spending their summer break solely on educational activities. Laura Bronstein, dean of Binghamton University, emphasizes that it is the engagement in activities that keep the mind active and promote overall development that prevents learning loss. Whether it’s travel, arts, athletics, or other engaging activities, children can build important skills during the summer.
Unfortunately, children who lack access to these opportunities are at a disadvantage, as cumulative summer learning loss can compound over the years. In a study by Karl Alexander, it was found that approximately two-thirds of the achievement gap between advantaged and disadvantaged youth in the ninth grade can be attributed to summer learning loss during the elementary school years. This disparity continues into high school, where disadvantaged students are less likely to follow a college preparatory path.
The effects of summer learning loss can have long-term consequences. In Alexander’s study, 40% of the students did not obtain a high school diploma, limiting their future employment prospects and earning potential. It is important for families to understand that summer learning loss is a systemic issue and not their fault. However, there are ways to address and reverse this issue. By enrolling children in summer enrichment programs, providing learning opportunities at home and in the community, and utilizing local resources, we can create a more equitable education system.
Parents should not hesitate to seek help and utilize the expertise of their child’s teacher, who has a deep understanding of their students’ learning journey. Many universities, like Auburn, offer various camps and programs for K-12 students during the summer. Public schools have also received funding to address learning loss and are running free summer programs. Community schools, such as those in Binghamton, provide comprehensive services like healthcare, counseling, after-school care, and summer learning opportunities, effectively interrupting the cycle of poverty.
COVID-19 has taught us that learning can continue outside of the classroom. Suzanne Barchers, from Lingokids, emphasizes the importance of incorporating learning into everyday activities. For example, reading books together, listening to audiobooks, engaging in arts and crafts, visiting museums, and involving children in household activities that utilize their classroom skills are all effective ways to prevent summer learning loss. Low-tech activities like hiking can also offer opportunities for skill development, such as map reading and decision-making.
Parents can also collaborate with other families to maximize their strengths and create learning opportunities for their children. Whether it’s organizing group swimming lessons or cooking activities, there are numerous ways to keep learning alive during the summer. Ultimately, parents play a crucial role in fostering a love of learning by modeling curiosity, reading with their children, and demonstrating a willingness to invest time in their education.
To combat the issue of summer learning loss, it is essential to break down barriers that prevent access to summer programs, such as cost or lack of information. Families should explore scholarships and financial assistance options for summer activities. Local resources, like public libraries, provide valuable resources for learning. By making learning a natural part of summer activities and involving children in educational experiences, parents can empower their children to thrive academically, even outside of the classroom.
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