Free and Low-Cost Summer Learning Tips for Parents

by Clay Burell

categories: Parent Voices, Teaching Ideas and Resources

Published June 15, 2009 @ 07:38PM PT

Just a quick share, for parents wanting input on how to keep their children occupied in constructive ways during the summer. This is from an email from Ron Fairchild, executive director of the National Center for Summer Learning at The Johns Hopkins University:

The effort to keep kids learning during summer is based on research that shows that:

• Most students fall more than two months behind in math over the summer.

• Low-income children fall behind two months in reading while middle and upper-income peers make slight gains.

• By fifth grade, low-income children can be 2 ½ years behind in reading.

• Only one in five children who receives free or reduced price meals during the school year gets them in summer.

A recent Johns Hopkins study found that 65 percent of the achievement gap in reading between poor and more advantaged ninth-graders is due to unequal summer learning experiences during elementary school years. That gap makes a difference in whether students decide to drop out or go on to college.

"Even in tough economic times, there are many free or low-cost things parents can do to keep their kids healthy, safe and learning this summer," says Fairchild.

SUMMER LEARNING TIPS FOR PARENTS

• Locate a summer program that fits your budget. Programs offered by schools, recreation centers, universities, and community-based organizations often have an educational or enrichment focus.

• The library is a great, free resource. Check out books that interest your child. Participate in free library summer programs and make time to read every day.

• Take free or low-cost educational trips to parks, museums, zoos and nature centers.

• If you are taking a day trip by car, choose a place with an educational theme. Camping is also is low-cost way to get outside and learn about nature.

• Practice math daily: Measure items around the house or yard. Track daily temperatures. Add and subtract at the grocery store. Learn fractions while cooking.

• Play outside. Limit TV and video games. Intense physical activity and exercise contribute to healthy development.

• Do a community service project.  Teach your child how to volunteer in your community and show compassion to others.

• Keep a schedule. Continue daily routines during the summer with structure and limits. The key is providing a balance and keeping kids engaged.

• Prepare for fall. Find out what your child will be learning during the next school year by talking with teachers at that grade level. Preview concepts and materials over the summer.