The Value of Summer Learning
According to the National Summer Learning Association, youth experience a “Summer Slide” during the summer months, in which, they may fall behind on skills learned throughout the school year. Research indicates that high-quality summer programs can improve math and reading skills and build critical social and emotional skills of youth. By creating opportunities for summer learning, a passion is ignited in youth that promotes creativity and leadership.
%
of families not participating in a summer program say they would if one was available to them
%
of educators spend at least three weeks re-teaching content at the start of the school year
%
of youth in grades 3 to 5 participating in summer programming maintained or increased their reading levels over the course of the summer
%
of parents are satisfied with their child’s structured summer experience
National Summer Learning Week
National Summer Learning Week is a celebration dedicated to elevating the importance of keeping kids learning, safe, and healthy every summer, ensuring they return to school in the fall ready to succeed in the year. This year, NSLA is bringing back themes you can use to highlight activities during the celebration such as Literacy, STEM, Arts, College & Career Readiness, and Nutrition and Wellness. To learn more about the National Summer Learning Week, click HERE.
Research
North Carolina After 3PM - Summer
Summer programs provide critical positive experiences that youth carry with them as they grow. Structured programs offer the chance to foster friendships and connections, develop life skills, be active, and explore different subjects through intellectually engaging projects. For families, summer programs provide peace of mind knowing their child is in a safe and engaging space. However, data finds that access to summer learning is still inaccessible for some families. To view the report, click here.
Every Summer Counts Report
Research from the latest report from The Wallace Foundation finds students who consistently attended high-quality, five-to-six week summer programs experienced meaningful benefits. Watch this short video by RAND’s senior researcher and co-author of the report to learn more about the findings.
Summer Activity Guides
To support the hard work of providers statewide, NC CAP and the 50 State Afterschool Network, under the leadership of the Georgia Statewide Afterschool Network, has developed a suite of fun and engaging activities and challenges designed for the summer amid COVID-19.
Within the Summer Activity Guides, providers can expect 150 activities and challenges that are organized by age groups, adaptable for in-person and virtual instruction, and designed to build skills and social-emotional learning. This resource also includes supplemental materials for professional development and enhancing family engagement. This resource will be released gradually over the next 10 weeks (beginning the week of May 25th to August 14th). Activity batches will be provided every two weeks with supplemental materials t to support providers in implementation.
Summer Activity Guides units include: (1) Who I Am, (2) Healthy Life, (3) Purpose & Passion, (4) Invention & Imagination, and (5) Exploring My World.
