As the St. John’s school year winds down and students look forward to carefree summer days, there’s one thing we parents and educators should all keep in mind: the summer slide is real.

What is the summer slide? It’s the term used to describe the learning loss that many students experience over the summer break—especially in reading and math. According to research, students can lose up to two to three months of academic skills during the summer if they aren’t actively engaged in learning. That means teachers often spend the first weeks of a new school year helping students “catch back up” before they can move forward.

But here’s the good news: the summer slide isn’t inevitable. With just a bit of intentionality, families can help children stay engaged and even grow in their skills over the summer months!

Summer learning doesn’t have to look like sitting at a desk doing worksheets. In fact, it shouldn’t! Some of the most effective summer learning happens through everyday activities. In a recent blog post, Lutheran educator Jeff Burkart shares more information about the summer slide and how to thwart it. He includes the following fun (and easy) suggestions.

• Participation in a summer enrichment camp, such as Vacation Bible School, sports camps, STEM camps, etc.
• Visit your local library. The GRRL system has a TON of activites for children each month, and many (maybe even most) are free!
• Family excursions to local, regional, and national museums of all types. Do a quick Google search to find interesting places to visit near you.
• Visit your State Capitol building and county courthouses.
• Plan a tour of a local arboretum. There are at least 8 arboretums within 30 minutes of St. Paul. Pick one (or more) to visit.
• Visit a local zoo or band shell to enjoy a free concert.
• Do a “Four Book Challenge” over summer vacation. Aim for your child to read (or listen to) at least four books this summer, and challenge him/her to read a minimum of 30 minutes each day. Younger children should be read to at least 15 minutes each day.
• Plan a day trip to somewhere fun.
• Visit a raptor center or animal shelter.
• Have a four-hour tie blanket making camp. Send them to Lutheran World Relief or local charity, hospital, etc.

One of the best ways to encourage summer learning is to show that learning is a joy—not a chore. Let your child see you reading, trying something new, or exploring a hobby. Your enthusiasm is contagious! And don’t forget to keep studying the Word! Use our Learn. Pray. Grow. resources to continue family devotions, prayers together, and Bible and catechism memory work.

At St. John’s, we’re passionate about helping students thrive year-round. That’s why we encourage families to take advantage of the slower summer pace to grow minds, hearts, and faith. Let’s not settle for the slide—let’s aim for a summer of growth, discovery, and joyful learning!