Written by: Sonia Strueby, M.A., CCC-SLP, Founder of Enrichment Therapy & Learning Center
Originally Published: April 1, 2019 | Updated: August 31, 2026
Summer means new schedules, less routine, and a well-earned break from formal schooling, which also means it’s easy for learning to quietly slip to the back burner. If you’re looking for ways to beat the summer slide, the good news is you don’t need a strict academic routine to keep skills sharp. Small, fun, everyday activities can go a long way. Here are seven easy ways to sneak learning into your summer, sunscreen not included.
What Is the “Summer Slide”?
The “summer slide” refers to the academic skill regression some kids experience over summer break, sometimes cited as up to about two months’ worth of skills. It’s worth knowing that researchers don’t fully agree on how large or consistent this effect really is.
A recent review by NWEA found that test scores often flatten or dip somewhat over the summer, especially in math. However, the size of the effect varies quite a bit depending on how it’s measured. Regardless of the exact numbers, light, consistent engagement with reading and learning over the summer is a low-effort, positive habit for any child.
Everyday Activities to Beat the Summer Slide
1. Join a summer reading program. Most public libraries and bookstores offer incentive programs to keep kids reading all summer long. While you’re registering, branch out into a new genre too. Many kids get stuck in a reading rut, so look up a recommended book list and try something a little different.
2. Try a new recipe. Cooking together builds measurement and direction-following skills, and it’s a genuine life skill too. As a bonus, once your child gets comfortable in the kitchen, they may be able to help make their own breakfast or lunch, freeing up a little time on your to-do list.
3. Listen to audiobooks. On a long car ride, swap the music for an audiobook. Keep your child engaged by asking questions along the way, like what they think will happen next or what their favorite part has been so far. Many local libraries let you check out audiobooks for free.
4. Start a journal. Give your child a notebook to jot down their thoughts or the day’s highlights. For a fun twist, turn it into a back-and-forth journal you share together: one day you write your child a note and hand over the notebook, and the next day they write back.
More Ways to Keep Learning Going
5. Enroll your child in a summer academic program. Structured summer programs can offer a great mix of fun and skill-building. At ETLC, we offer summer programs for all ages covering reading, math, and social skills.
6. Be intentional about screen time. Screens are part of daily life for most families, and that’s okay in moderation. Rather than focusing only on a strict hour limit, the American Academy of Pediatrics’ updated guidance now emphasizes building a family media plan. This plan focuses on the quality of content, co-viewing and talking with your child about what they watch, and protecting screen-free times like meals and the hour before bed. When screen time does happen, choosing academic or educational apps can make it a bit more worthwhile.
7. Have a lemonade stand. A lemonade stand packs in more learning than it looks like. Kids practice measurement while mixing the lemonade and build money skills by making change and counting earnings. Just don’t tell them it’s learning, they won’t even notice.
When Should I Seek Extra Academic Support?
If your child has been consistently struggling with reading, math, or another academic skill during the school year, summer can be a great, lower-pressure time to build that skill back up before the next school year begins. Our summer programs are designed to blend engaging activities with targeted academic support, so your child heads into fall feeling confident.
Enjoy the Season
Enjoy the warmth and sunshine this summer with your family. When you think about it, there are so many easy ways to sneak learning into your everyday summer activities. If you’d like to talk about summer programs or your child’s academic progress, contact our team at ETLC.
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