The average summer vacation lasts about 8-9 weeks, during which time millions of children have little or no enriching or reinforcing academic experiences. When young minds sit idle for three months, the result is a phenomenon known as "summer learning loss." Because of these learning losses, teachers must often spend the first six to eight weeks of the school year—or roughly 22% of the year according to a study at the New York University for Summer Learning—re-teaching forgotten information to students instead of teaching new information and skills.

In a study conducted at the New York University, summer learning loss for children on average equaled at least one month of instruction as measured by grade equivalents on reading and math standardized test scores combined. In addition, on average students lost approximately 2.6 months of grade level equivalency in mathematical computation and spelling skill over the summer months.

As a parent, it is important for you to help your child retain the knowledge he or she has learned each year. Whether homework is assigned during the school year or as a “summer bridge” between grades, you can help your child get it done. In fact, the American Federation of Teachers (AFT) says parents can help their children academically, even if homework is not assigned. The AFT describes home as “a child’s first school.” The organization recommends spending a little time each day on reading, writing and math activities.

Strengthen and Reinforce Your Child's Skills this summer

Whether your child is struggling in school, or just not being challenged enough, I can help. Summer is the best time to help your child prepare for the upcoming school year and prevent summer learning loss. Spend a summer with Seaver and help your child strengthen academic skills and discover a love of learning that lasts a lifetime.

Ed Seaver

President