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Top 10 Activities to Prevent Summer Learning Slide

Top 10 Activities to Prevent Summer Learning Slide
| Emily Lequerica | Articles

As we move into the summer months, we are especially mindful of the natural “summer learning slide” that can occur when routines shift and school is not in session. With this in mind, the Center is sharing practical, research-informed ideas to support families at home—simple ways to keep curiosity alive, strengthen habits of reading and movement, and encourage meaningful connection throughout the summer season.
Activity 1
1 Daily Reading Time Make reading non-negotiable but enjoyable. Let your boys choose books, comics, magazines, audiobooks, or read aloud together. A weekly library trip builds excitement around books and gives kids ownership over what they read.
PDS Library Hours / Summer Reading Bingo Card
Activity 2
2 Movement Every Day Biking, swimming, hiking, playground time, and sports keep the brain alert and supports learning readiness.
Activity 3
3 Practice Real-Life Math Use cooking, measuring, budgeting allowance, grocery shopping, travel distances, and sports stats.
Activity 4
4 Chores and Responsibility Laundry, dishes, pet care, making beds, organizing rooms, yard work - responsibility builds executive functioning.
Activity 5
5 Creative Projects Art, building forts, Legos, sewing, music, photography, journaling, or making movies stimulate imagination.
Activity 6
6 Nature Time Gardening, bug hunts, creek walks, bird watching, camping, or simply being outside reduces stress and boosts curiosity.
Activity 8
8 Social Play Neighborhood games, camps, cousins, sleepovers, volunteering, or team activities help emotional growth and confidence.
Activity 9
9 Keep a Routine Not school rigidity - but predictable wake times, reading times, movement, chores, and bedtime rhythms.

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