Beat the summer slide: Holly Easterling shares kid

Beat the summer slide: Holly Easterling shares kid-friendly tips for parents

Summer break is meant to be a time for relaxation, but families should remain mindful of the “summer slide.” This term refers to the minor academic regression that can occur when children take an extended break from consistent reading and math practice.

Holly Easterling, an educator with Arkansas Connections Academy, notes that parents should keep track of the skills their children are maintaining during the summer months. She explains that when students are away from the classroom, they risk losing some of the progress made during the school year, particularly if they are not regularly engaging with reading and math exercises.

National Summer Learning Week, observed from July 6 through 10, aims to promote awareness and encourage families to keep students mentally active so they are prepared for the upcoming school year. Easterling emphasized that summer learning does not need to mirror a full day of school; even simple, engaging activities performed a few times a week can be effective.

Her advice is to let the interests of the child lead the way. If a student is passionate about animals, music, or science, she suggests using those topics to select activities. She also points to local libraries as a convenient re their movie adaptations

Math can also be integrated into daily routines, she said. In the kitchen, children can assist with cooking by measuring ingredients or adjusting recipe quantities. At the grocery store, they can practice basic budgeting, counting items, and keeping track of the items placed in the cart.

Many libraries offer free summer reading programs. She also recommended the National Summer Learning website for activity ideas, along with the Connections Academy website.

Families looking for more information can visit online, which Easterling said includes a list of re

Easterling also shared details about Arkansas Connections Academy, where she has taught for six years. She described it as a tuition-free public school that functions like a traditional brick-and-mortar school, but allows students to learn from anywhere with an online connection. Easterling said she is a special education teacher, and confirmed the school serves students with IEPs.