June 10, 2024

Tips to Prevent Summer Slide

The school year may be over, but learning never ends! At KIPP Texas, we encourage our Little KIPPsters to stay academically sharp by engaging in summer reading. Not only is it fun, but research shows that students who read during summer vacation are more likely to score higher on tests when school resumes in August.

To prevent the “Summer Slide”—the tendency for children to lose some of the academic gains they made during the previous school year—here are some tips to keep your Little KIPPster learning all summer long.

Set Goals

Work with your child to set realistic learning goals this summer. Make learning a priority, whether by reading a book a week, dedicating 30 minutes a day to reading, or incorporating math and science into everyday activities.

Pro-tip: Set up a reward system to celebrate together once they meet their goals!

Read Every Day

Find time every day for reading, together or separately, and discuss what you enjoy about your books to cultivate a love for reading. To choose the right books, have your child test-read a few pages before buying or borrowing them from the library. A book that’s too easy will be boring, while one that’s too challenging can be frustrating. Help find a book that’s just right!

Tips for Success:

Complete at least one 20-minute learning session daily and keep a reading log.
Allow your child to take charge of their learning. KIPPsters can choose which learning platforms and activities they want to complete!

Make Learning Fun

Learning opportunities are everywhere! During summer activities, kids can read cereal boxes, menus, recipes, and signs. Play games in the car where your child reads all the words they see to practice their reading skills and grow their vocabulary. Practice math skills by letting your child handle the payment and change when dining out or shopping.

Take Field Trips

Consider taking field trips this summer to create learning opportunities. Discuss strategies and rules at sporting events, or visit museums and talk about your kids’ favorite parts of the exhibits.

Austin:

Thinkery Children’s Museum: 1830 Simond Avenue, Austin, TX 78723, 512-469-6200
Pioneer Farms: 10621 Pioneer Farms Drive, Austin, TX 78754, 512-837-1215

Dallas:

Perot Museum of Nature and Science: 2201 N Field Street, Dallas, TX 75201, 214-428-5555
Fort Worth Museum of Science and History: 1600 Gendy Street, Fort Worth, TX 76107, 817-255-9300

Houston:

Children’s Museum of Houston: 1500 Binz Street, Houston, TX 77004, 713-522-1138
The Health Museum: 1515 Hermann Drive, Houston, TX 77004, 713-942-7054

San Antonio:

The DoSeum: 2800 Broadway, San Antonio, TX 78209, 210-212-4453
Witte Museum: 3801 Broadway Street, San Antonio, TX 78209, 210-357-1900

Go to the Library

Visit your local library to allow your child to browse and select books they’re interested in. Don’t hesitate to check out a book for yourself—modeling a love for reading can inspire your child to do the same. Libraries often have great summer programs, usually free! Learn more about library programming in your city:

Keep the learning momentum this summer, and watch your Little KIPPster thrive!