Avoiding the Summer Slide: How to Keep Kids Learning All Summer Long

Written By Alyssa Elias

Have You Heard of the “Summer Slide”?

As the school year winds down and backpacks get tucked away, many students begin a well-earned summer break. But while rest and play are essential for a child’s development, long stretches without educational engagement can lead to a phenomenon known as the “summer slide.” This learning loss can set students back—particularly those already at risk—and make the return to school in the fall more difficult than it needs to be.

Let’s break down what the summer slide is, why it matters, and how families can prevent it without sacrificing fun.

What Is the “Summer Slide”?

The summer slide refers to the loss of academic skills and knowledge that students experience during the summer months when school is not in session. Research shows that this loss is most pronounced in reading and math, and it disproportionately affects students from low-income households, who often have less access to enrichment resources during break.

What the Research Says

  • Students lose about 20% of their school-year gains in reading and 27% in math during summer break.
    — NWEA, 2020

  • By the time they reach middle school, students can lose up to two full years of learning if the summer slide goes unaddressed year after year.
    — Brookings Institute

  • Low-income students are particularly vulnerable. By fifth grade, summer learning loss accounts for as much as two-thirds of the achievement gap between low- and high-income students.
    — Johns Hopkins University

Resources & Programs to Keep Kids Engaged

Here are evidence-based and accessible programs that can help bridge the summer gap:

Local Library Summer Reading Programs

Most public libraries offer free reading challenges, book clubs, and storytelling events.

Atlanta - “Color Our World”, Cobb reading club

Khan Academy (Free)

Offers interactive lessons in math, science, reading, and life skills for K–12 students.

PBS Kids Learning Tools

Educational games, printable activity packs, and themed weekly summer challenges.

Camp Invention

A nationally recognized summer program focusing on creativity, STEM, and innovation.

Boys & Girls Clubs / YMCA Programs

Affordable or free camps and tutoring for academic enrichment alongside recreational activities.

Local School District Summer Enrichment Programs

Many schools offer bridge programs, tutoring, or learning academies—often at no cost.

Tips and Tricks for Parents

Build Learning Into Everyday Routines

  • Cook together to teach math (measuring) and science (chemical changes)

  • Garden to introduce biology, patience, and responsibility

  • Let kids help plan trips to learn geography and budgeting

Create a Summer Learning Schedule

  • Just 15–30 minutes a day can help.

  • Use a simple visual calendar: Monday = Math, Tuesday = Reading, etc.

Incorporate Educational Apps & Games

  • Try Prodigy Math, Duolingo (for language), or Epic! Books

  • Set screen time limits that include learning apps before free play

Encourage Reading Every Day

  • Let kids choose their own books (graphic novels count!)

  • Read aloud together, even for older kids—it boosts vocabulary and listening skills

Make Learning Social

  • Organize a neighborhood book club or science challenge

  • Let kids present their summer learning projects to family or friends

Plan Educational Outings

  • Visit Horizons Atlanta, museums (check for free days), or nature trails to blend learning with exploration.

Document Progress

  • Use tools like the Beanstack app or printable logs to track reading and learning goals.

Atlanta and Georgia Locals

Final Thoughts

The summer slide is real, but it’s preventable. With a little planning and creativity, families can turn summer into a season of growth, discovery, and fun. Whether your child is reviewing math facts at the kitchen table or building a backyard fort that doubles as a STEM lab, every moment can be a chance to learn.

And remember: you don’t have to recreate school at home. Just stay curious, stay connected, and keep the spark of learning alive until the school bell rings again.

Alyssa Elias
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Every Student Deserves a Path to Success—Universal Design for Learning (UDL)