The summer is here, travel plans made, maybe even some summer camps to fill your child’s schedule for the next 2 1⁄2 months until the start of the new school year! While your child may be excited to take a much-needed break from their school studies, how will these next couple of months impact their success to start the school year off on the right foot?
Studies show that reading and language skills tend to increase over the summer months with established programs through libraries, school reading lists, or just more time to spend with leisure reading. Some studies show a 20% increase in these reading and language skills over the course of the summer months.
A topic all too commonly seen substantial decrease is in math. Whether your child excels or has struggled with math in the past, 70%-78% of children experience a decrease in math knowledge before the start of the new school year. Which is equal to 1-3 months of school math. Presenting them with a disadvantage for the start of the school year. Many will need to play catch up as the necessary school curriculum continues at the state’s pace.
The largest drop in math retention is seen at the 5th and 6th grade level with 84% of students demonstrating the summer slump. This leaves parents left to face a difficult challenge, incorporate summer curriculum in math taught by mom and dad?? For many parents this may not be a realistic option as for some it may have been since 5th or 6th grade that they have even looked at this type of math. Others may opt for a private tutor, or some may seek out specialty tutoring centers for math to help maintain their child’s math knowledge.
For those looking for specific math programs during the center take in consideration these things:
1. Company reputation and longevity. This goes beyond Google reviews, factor those in of course, but overall is this company a reputable organization?
2. Fellow parents and teachers about their experience with programs.
3. What are the instructors/tutor’s background?
4. Format of the center’s program and curriculum. Every child is different; some children work well in a less supervised environment and others need a little more one-on-one instruction and guidance.
5. If you are traveling or sick, will they offer make-ups?
6. How does the center track and deliver on their promise? This is an investment for your child and you will want to know how the center is ensuring their growth!
7. Does the center offer seasonal or year-round support? This can be key especially, if they need a little homework help or additional support as the school year begins.
8. Do they assign homework? For some students this is great and for others this might be a wasted additional cost to their program.
9. Flexibility and variety in scheduling? Do they have times that work with your schedule?
10. Will your child have fun? The idea for some students of school work over the summer may not be too appealing, so it is important that you find a program that they will enjoy!
The only way to truly avoid the summer slump is to continue the learning over the summer. With the right program and support your child will feel confident and successful as they start the new school year! Enjoy the summer and avoid the summer slump!
Want More Family Fun Right in Your Inbox?
Score a lot of love in your inbox every week with Macaroni KID! Get the inside scoop on fun activities, events, and giveaways to keep your family entertained all year long.
Sign up here for Macaroni KID Marysville-Snohomish now!
Follow us on Facebook and Instagram!
When visiting events and local businesses, be sure to tell them Macaroni KID sent you... and don't forget to tell all your friends!
 |  |  |
 |  |  |
