Prevent Skill Sliding this Summer

Summer is my favorite time of the year. I remember being a kid and how wonderful it was to have a break from the academics, to sleep in, play late, spend days in the pool, and take vacations. Believe me, I'm in support of all of these things and I think it's a great part of being a kid. However, there can be a downside to the lazy days of summer, especially for children who struggle.... Practice makes perfect and days without practice, means skill sliding. For the children who are already behind peers, it's not a good idea to let those skills slide.


What you might be able to do as a parent:

• If it is offered and you feel it is a good idea for your child- summer school. That's the best way for children to keep the skills they have and even possibly improve and be more ready for the next year. Summer school is not offered in all systems and eligibility is limited. Talk to your principal to see if this is a possibility for your child.

• Tutoring can be a great way to focus on a specific skills or to practice what has already been learned. Many teachers are willing to tutor during the summer and can create fun lessons. The downside is the cost.

What all parents can do:
If summer school or tutoring is not an option, don't fret. There are things any family can do. A parent put academic time into the daily or weekly schedule. Warning: You will have resistance and you will have to be the one to set the rules and DO NOT BUDGE! Set up a time every day or on certain days of the week for academic time. Let your children know that this is the expectation and it WILL happen. You can ask your teacher for suggestions on a workbook or a certain skill to work on over the summer.

Possible scenarios:

• 20 minutes of reading before bed every night and on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday 30 minutes from a math workbook on your child's level.

• Flash cards right after breakfast before she can go play, 20 minutes of reading in the evening.

• Computer game focusing on a specific math skill for 20 minutes before any other video games can be played that day.

• Play "school" with your son twice a week. You teach him for 20 minutes, then he teaches you a skill he already knows.

• The entire family will read to themselves for thirty minutes every evening before the children's bedtime.

Tips:
Don't push too hard about what is learned. However, do be firm about keeping with the set times. Remember to let them be kids and have carefree times as well. Do what works well for your family while helping to encourage responsibility and academic growth in your child.