May 21, 2026

Dear Lower School Families,

We hope your family is looking forward to a summer filled with rest, fun and meaningful time together. This season offers children an important opportunity to grow in meaningful ways. It is a time to build independence, confidence, creativity and responsibility through everyday experiences and routines.

Here are seven simple, practical ideas that help children stay engaged, connected and prepared for a strong start to the new school year.

1. Protect Time for Unstructured Play

Independent, imaginative play helps children develop creativity, problem-solving skills and confidence. Summer does not need to be over-scheduled. In fact, moments of boredom often lead to the most meaningful learning and innovation.

2. Build Independence Through Daily Life

Summer is a wonderful time for children to practice everyday responsibilities such as dressing independently, tying shoes, packing bags, helping with meals, caring for belongings and contributing to family routines. These small experiences build capable and confident students.

3. Make Reading a Daily Habit

Consistent reading is one of the most valuable ways to support learning over the summer. Reading independently, reading aloud together, visiting the library and listening to audiobooks all help strengthen language, comprehension and imagination.

4. Keep Math Skills Sharp

Short, consistent practice with counting, math facts and number fluency can make a tremendous difference. Flashcards, games, skip-counting routines and real-life math experiences such as cooking in the kitchen help children maintain confidence and automaticity.

5. Encourage Writing in Meaningful Ways

Children benefit from authentic opportunities to write. Journals, letters, stories, vacation reflections, lists and creative writing all strengthen communication and thinking skills while allowing children to express themselves in meaningful ways.

6. Strengthen Listening, Routines & Social Skills

Summer is an ideal time to reinforce important life skills such as first-time listening, patience, following directions, maintaining routines and respectful communication. These habits support both academic success and positive relationships. Doing chores around the house together and playing games that require communication and cooperation are great ways to reinforce these skills.

7. Prioritize Family Time & Conversation

Some of the most important learning happens through connection. Family dinners, games, shared experiences and meaningful conversations help children develop language, confidence, empathy and a sense of belonging. Encouraging your child to speak in complete sentences is one way oral language can contribute to the development of reading and writing skills. Small, steady habits and intentional moments together can have a lasting impact on a child’s growth and readiness for the year ahead.

Thank you for your continued partnership and for all you do to support your children each day. We are grateful for the strong community we share and wish your family a joyful, restful and enriching summer.

Warmly,

Vanessa Taglia

Lower School Director of Academic Programs