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We get it.
Everyone looks forward to the summer break from school. Heck, we are making our own plans for vacations, pool time, and a few rounds of golf. But the reality is this - while it is expected for students to enjoy their time away from the classroom, they mustn't digress and return to school in August having forgotten some of what they learned this year.
Sometimes referred to as the "Summer Slide," learning loss is very real according to Professor Paul Fitchett of Auburn University. Some experts believe up to a month of learning is lost over the summer. That does not mean your child needs to be studying algorithms or Latin instead of swimming and playing ball. But it does mean that it is to the child's advantage to keep his or her brain engaged and functioning during the break. Any kind of activity that promotes overall cognitive wellness - like traveling, reading, and creating, will help students build and maintain important skills.
These kinds of activities can be fun and enjoyed by the entire family:
- listening to audiobooks in the car
- reading a book, then watching a movie based on it, comparing the two
- mapping out a hike and hitting the trails
- doing arts & crafts
- visiting museums (check for days that are low-cost or free)
- reading books together or participating in a summer reading program at the local library
At LCS we place great emphasis on reading over the summer. According to Psychology Today, a 2011 study found students can lose up to two grade levels of reading skills due to summer reading loss by the time they reach sixth grade. The past year saw some incredible developments in our schools when it comes to reading - from revamped libraries to state-recognized initiatives. We also are fortunate to live in a county with one of the best public library systems that even features a literacy center.
This summer, we are happily promoting the programming happening at Fairfield County District Library and we strongly encourage you to check out the free and diverse activities happening through August. In addition, the Fairfield County Workforce Center is offering FREE Explore Summer Camps for middle school students in Fairfield County. And, our community partners at Ohio Glass Museum, Art & Clay on Main, Lancaster Parks and Recreation, Wagnalls Memorial, the Decorative Arts Center, the Heritage Association, and Visit Fairfield County are all offering activities to keep students entertained and enlightened this summer.
Even if your student is entering kindergarten, using the summer to build skills is vital. Developing literacy begins at birth and by the age of three, a child’s brain is already 80% developed. When a child enters kindergarten, he or she must already know thousands of words in order to succeed in the classroom. Reading aloud to a child and giving them access to books is the best way to ensure they are prepared to enter kindergarten.
Lastly - have fun this summer! We hope to see you using the amazing parks and trails in our community, enjoying the various festivals, spending time downtown, playing sports, riding bikes, and laughing. Happy students make great learners.
Have a phenomenal break!
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