- The summer slide refers to the decline in academic skills during summer break, often resulting in loss of a month's worth or more of learning, particularly in reading and math.
- Impact on skills: Research shows children in grades 3-5 can lose approximately 20% of reading gains and 27% of math gains over summer, with younger children and those transitioning from elementary to middle school most affected.
- Importance of creative learning: Libraries and community programs offer summer reading challenges and fun activities that can help counteract learning loss.
- Engaging older children: Positive reinforcement can encourage teenagers to practice academic skills during summer.
- Benefits of arts and crafts: Activities like arts and crafts support fine motor skills development, especially for younger children, reinforcing skills learned during the school year.
What is the Summer Slide?
During summer, it’s important to focus on children’s overall development, not just academics. This is how we can help what is called the summer slide.
Rebecca Murphy, MD, Pediatrics
