For many families, the start of summer brings a well-earned break. The hustle of early mornings, packing lunches, and struggles with homework are put on pause. But while summer is a time for rest and fun, it can also quietly undo months of academic progress if students aren’t engaged in some regular learning. This well-documented phenomenon, known as the “summer slide,” affects millions of students annually.
Research shows that students can lose up to 2.6 months of math skills over the summer, and by the end of grade 6, students who experience consistent summer learning loss are two years behind their peers in reading. The good news is that a thoughtful and flexible summer learning plan can make a big difference, and it doesn’t have to feel like schoolwork.
Why a Summer Learning Plan Matters
A structured approach to learning in the summer helps children maintain and even build on what they’ve learned during the school year. It also helps avoid the panic before the start of a new school year when students try to cram everything back into their brains right before school starts again. With just a small amount of consistent academic activity each week, students can start the next school year with more confidence and a feeling of readiness.
Step 1: Set Realistic Goals
Begin by reflecting on your child’s school year. Were there any subjects they struggled with? Are there skills they could build on? Instead of trying to do too much, focus on one or two specific areas, such as reading fluency, multiplication facts, or writing structure.
Keep goals simple and measurable. For example:
- “Read 15 minutes a day, five days a week.”
- “Complete one math worksheet every Tuesday and Thursday.”
- “Write one paragraph journal entry three times a week.”
Step 2: Make Learning Part of the Routine
Summer learning doesn’t have to happen at a desk. Build it into your regular summer rhythm:
- Morning reading time before screens or reading before bedtime
- Math practice after lunch
- Writing while journaling about trips, outings, or fun summer moments
Small, consistent efforts are more effective and less overwhelming than cramming a week before school begins again.
Step 3: Mix Academics with Interests
Let your child’s natural curiosity lead the way. Learning can happen through:
- Baking (fractions and measurements)
- Gardening (science, responsibility and patience)
- Travel planning (map skills and budgeting)
- Educational games, apps, podcasts, and audiobooks
The more fun and relevant the material feels, the more motivated your child will be to stick with it.
Step 4: Get Extra Support If Needed
Sometimes, kids need a little more structure and guidance to stay on track. Summer tutoring, especially with an individualized plan, can be a great solution. Without the pressure of tests, deadlines, and homework, students can focus more deeply on skill-building, catch up in areas of struggle, or get ahead in subjects they enjoy. Tutoring in the summer can feel more like discovery than schoolwork, especially when it’s customized to your child’s goals and learning style.
The Benefits Go Beyond Academics
Summer tutoring isn’t just about catching up; it’s about helping students:
- rebuild confidence after a tough year
- fill in gaps in understanding before they widen
- stay mentally engaged to avoid the fall “restart” slump
- strengthen executive functioning and study habits
- feel prepared and optimistic about the new school year
For families who already have summer camps or sports planned, tutoring can be seamlessly worked into the schedule. Scholars provides flexible scheduling to ensure you can do everything you want to this summer while achieving academic goals and growth before the new school year begins!
Summer should absolutely be a time for play, relaxation, and recharging. However, it’s also an opportunity to hone skills, boost confidence, and even make new friends and discover new interests. A well-designed summer learning plan doesn’t have to be complicated. With the right mix of structure, creativity, and support, your child can enjoy every moment of their summer and start the school year strong.