As we approach summer, many parents will be making the decision of what their children will be doing for the summer. Should they stay home? Play with friends? Sign up for classes? Sports camps?
Having taught Kindergarten for ten years, I see the importance that structure can play in the life of a child. Once school lets out for summer, many children start to lose skills learned throughout the year. They also lose that structure that gave their daily life order.I am a firm believer that children do in fact need down time, time to play, and disengage for a while.However, as many parents have experienced this down time over holiday breaks and summer can soon turn into boredom for the child.
Additionally, there has been much research in what is known to many teachers as the “summer slide.” The “slide” suggests a decrease in academic skills, and most of the modern research on the matter in 2015 shows losses in both reading and math skills over the summer. One such organization in the business of assessing student performances in reading, math, and science, NWEA’s research suggests that the proportions of loss increases each year as kids grow older. (NWEA) Their research shows that 3rd graders risk to lose up to 20 percent of their school-year gains in reading and 27 percent in math, and 7th graders risk to lose an average of 36 percent and 50 percent respectively in reading and math.
Figure 1. Average school year gains and summer learning loss based on 2015 MAP Growth Norms Study
Child-psychologists also recognize the value of routine for early-childhood development.Consistency provides predictable patterns for children, leaving them feeling safe throughout their day and week.Melbourne Child Psychology, a resource on psychological services for parents and schools, writes on the importance of routine in childhood stating,
“Building routines with children helps them feel safe. They know what to expect when they go home, and it provides them with clear boundaries, expectations, and consistency.” (Dani Kaufman - Melbourne Child Psychology)
Look into your community. Use your online resources like Macaroni Kid, your public libraries, museums, park districts, and independent schools.
I recognize the importance of routine for children. In addition to my time in the classroom, I direct and oversee the summer camp program at my school. At Peoria Academy I feel we offer the perfect balance for the “summer slide” dilemma. Our certified teachers provide weekly enrichment classes such as Robotics, Ooey Goey Science, Baking, Drama, Math Mania, Jewelry making and sports camps and much more! Our experienced instructors provide afternoon weekly themed activities as well as field trips. Activities centered around Art, Science, cooking and P.E. We also take a trip each week to the pool and a themed field trip. We balance play and challenging classes to keep the mind engaged and skills sharp over the summer. Our summer camp is open to the public both half and full day, so if you live or work in the Peoria area, check out our brochure or our registration page.
Instead of boredom, give your child a summer to remember at Peoria Academy!
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Joanie Rankin Kindergarten Teacher/Summer Camp Director | Ben VandenBerg Assistant Head of School |
