As the school year comes to a close and the lazy days of summer approach, many children and parents may be looking forward to a break from homework and academic responsibilities. However, taking a break from reading over the summer can have a negative impact on a child's learning progress, leading to what is known as the "summer slide."
What is the Summer Slide?
The summer slide refers to the loss of academic skills and knowledge that can occur over the summer months, particularly in the area of reading. Research has shown that children who do not read over the summer can lose up to two months of reading achievement. This can have long-term consequences, as these children may start the new school year at a disadvantage compared to their peers who practiced and maintained their reading skills over the break.
How to fight the Summer Slide in Lubbock!
To combat the summer slide, it's important for parents to encourage their children to continue reading throughout the summer months. Reading regularly not only helps children maintain their current reading level, but it can also improve their reading skills and vocabulary. In addition, reading can expand children's knowledge, enhance their imagination, and boost their overall academic performance.
Attend a Free Tiny Tots Book Giveaway
Books can be expensive--especially children's books! To help combat that, we here at Literacy Lubbock give away free children's books at our Tiny Tots events. Join us at the Godeke Library Branch on Wednesdays at 12:30 and the Groves Library Branch on Thursdays at 11:00 with your little ones for a fun storytime and a free book afterward!
The Lubbock Public Library
Lubbock gears up for the summer months in a BIG way! They have plenty of activities, games, crafts, and fun times all geared around getting you to the library or encouraging you to read. Plus, over the summer, they have prizes you could win! And the odds of you snagging something are amazingly good! Check out the Library's Summer Reading program by clicking here!
Find Summer Camps
Summer camps allow children to get out of the house, socialize, and learn new things. There are plenty of summer camps out there, but we're particularly stocked about the ones provided by our friends over at the Lubbock Community Theater! With focuses such as acting, singing, dancing, prop-making, filmmaking, make-up, printmaking, podcasting and more, there's something to pique their interest. Plus, with the kiddos using their noggins, they're less likely to fall prey to that diabolical summer slide. Learn more by clicking here!
Visit Museums
Lubbock boasts an amazing collection of museums. From the Science Spectrum to the Buddy Holly Center, there's plenty to learn about while wandering these hallowed halls. Check out this massive list of museums you and your kiddos can visit this summer:
To recap, the summer slide is a real phenomenon that can impact children's learning progress and academic success. By promoting and prioritizing reading over the summer months, parents can help their children maintain and even improve their reading skills, setting them up for success when the new school year begins.
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