By California State PTA Education Commission

This summer you may be wondering how to make the most of your child’s time while still supporting their education. Learning loss can occur when students are away from school for a long break like summer. But don’t worry. With some planning and fun activities, you can turn summer into a chance for growth and learning. This article will give you practical ideas to prevent learning loss and keep young minds active during the break.

Let’s start with reading. Make it an exciting adventure for your child. Create a special reading list based on their interests and let them explore new genres and authors. You can even set up a mini-book club with their friends or siblings to talk about the books they read. Going to the local library regularly is not only fun but also helps them discover a wide range of books and connect with the community.

There are many cool educational games and apps available that can make learning super fun. From math puzzles to language learning games, these digital tools can help your child review and strengthen their academic skills while having a blast. Just make sure to keep an eye on their screen time and pick apps that match their age and learning needs.

Now, let’s dive into science. Summer is perfect for hands-on learning. Plan nature walks, visit botanical gardens, or try simple backyard experiments that teach cool scientific stuff. Exploring the great outdoors sparks curiosity and makes them appreciate nature and the environment.

Cooking is another exciting way to mix learning and everyday life. Involve your child in measuring ingredients, adjusting recipes, and calculating cooking times. It’s a great way to boost their math skills and promote healthy eating habits.

Next up is art. Encourage their creativity by providing art supplies and letting their imagination soar. Get an early start on this year’s PTA Reflections theme, “I am Hopeful Because…” Whether they love drawing, painting, or dancing, these activities are fantastic for developing fine motor skills and boosting their brain power.

Physical activity is not only fun but also essential for their development. It boosts brain function, improves concentration, memory, and cognitive abilities. Outdoor play and exercise are great stress busters and promote overall well-being. When they play with friends, they learn important social skills, teamwork, and cooperation. Encouraging physical activity early on sets the stage for a healthy and fit lifestyle.

Need more inspiration or some specific ideas and resources? Go to the California State PTA Resource Library and search for the category you’re interested in, such as Activities to do at Home, Arts, and ELA (English Language Arts) & Math. 

Remember, summer learning loss is a concern, but with your active involvement, you can turn this vacation time into a time of growth and exploration. Make learning enjoyable, relevant, and part of their daily life. You can create a complete summer learning plan that fights learning loss and prepares them for a smooth return to school in the fall. Embrace the summer as a time of growth and offer the support and encouragement your child needs to succeed both academically and personally. Happy summer learning!