Summer Tips for a Better Fall

Preparing for back to school is more manageable when students continue to learn over the summer and keep routines in place. It is typical to see a dip in scores in the fall. This is commonly known as the “summer slide.” Taking a long summer break without ways to engage children academically and/or allow them to think critically can cause a setback when they come back to school. Families can take several proactive steps to prevent the summer slide, which refers to the loss of academic skills and knowledge during summer break. Making time for activities to stimulate, develop, or maintain their skills can make school more enjoyable and successful when they return. These are easy tips for summer plans. Remember, summer should also be a relaxation, fun, and exploration time. Balance academic and recreational activities to ensure a well-rounded summer experience for your family.

Read: Students should read anything that interests them. This can be picture books, chapter books, graphic books, magazines, or novels. Set aside regular time for reading every day. Try joining the summer reading program at the local library or create a reading challenge of your own. Families can even listen to audiobooks on car trips. 

Learn: Do things that involve learning. Incorporate educational activities into your summer routine. Visit museums, science centers, or historical sites. Take field trips (local ones or on vacation), plant a garden, take a class, do a DIY project, cook, etc. Math skills can be particularly susceptible to the summer slide. Incorporate math-related activities into daily life, such as cooking, shopping, or budgeting. You can even try cooking together this summer. Spend time together as a family shopping for fruits and vegetables to try in a new recipe or ethnic food. Students can practice reading and math as well as explore other cultures and new foods. 

Play: There are plenty of yard games, board games, apps, and even video games that promote learning, reading, and critical thinking. Explore a new hobby. Here’s a great blog and a list of items to try. Encourage your students’ natural curiosity by allowing them to pursue their interests. Support their exploration of new topics, hobbies, or projects. Provide opportunities for hands-on learning experiences and experimentation.

Write: Have your student journal their summer experiences, feelings, or goals. Promoting writing activities will maintain language skills, help them improve skills, and give them a list of topics for possible writing assignments in the fall. You can encourage your student to write stories, journal entries, or letters to family and friends. Consider creating a summer scrapbook or blog to document their experiences.

Other ways to help students transition back to school this fall include goal setting and establishing routines. 

Set SMART Goals: Collaborate with your child to set achievable learning goals for the summer. This can include completing several books, improving specific skills, or mastering a new concept. Regularly review and celebrate progress towards these goals. Here’s a quick YouTube “How to Set SMART Goals” video on setting SMART goals with students. Talk with your child about their goals and expectations for the upcoming school year. Discuss academic, social, and personal goals and discuss ways to achieve them. Encourage open communication and provide support to help them succeed.

Set a Schedule: Create a structured schedule with time for learning activities. Set aside specific times for reading, math practice, writing, or other subjects your child may need to focus on. Consistency and regularity will help maintain academic skills. 

• Gradually reintroduce regular routines in the weeks leading up to school. This includes consistent bedtimes, wake-up times, and meal schedules. Establishing routines early helps children adjust and minimizes morning chaos once school starts.

• Familiarize yourself with the school's calendar, including essential dates such as orientations and extracurricular activities. Mark these dates on a family calendar and discuss them with your child. Create a daily schedule outlining school hours, extracurricular activities, homework, and free time.

Limit Screen Time: While technology can be educational, it's essential to establish healthy screen time limits. Encourage a balance between online and offline activities to ensure a well-rounded summer experience. This will also help with the transition when they return to the buildings where they will have limited access to personal devices. 

Organize Supplies: Take inventory of school supplies from the previous year and create a list of what needs to be replenished or purchased. Involve your child in shopping for new supplies to get them excited about the upcoming school year. Organize the supplies in backpacks or designated storage areas for easy access. The best system for their organization is one that students understand and have a voice in creating. 

Review School Policies and Procedures: Familiarize yourself with the building’s policies and procedures, such as drop-off and pick-up protocols, dress code guidelines, and rules regarding electronic devices. The District Code of Conduct and Building Handbooks are located on building web pages. Discuss these with your children to ensure they understand the expectations.

• Ensure your child's medical information, including immunization records and emergency contact details, is current. Check for any additional forms or medical requirements for the new school year. If your student has a health plan, update it and turn it in to the building office. 

Address Anxiety and Emotions: Talk to students about any concerns or anxieties about returning to school. Validate their feelings and provide reassurance. Share positive experiences from previous school years and remind them of their strengths and abilities. Remember that parentguidance.org has many resources to help you understand your child’s emotional development for all ages. In addition, this year, DPS will offer free parent coaching calls, support, and confidential help.

While each student’s needs vary, these are just a few recommendations to help create a positive and confident start to the new school year. Stay tuned for more information. We look forward to welcoming students back in late August.