Summer Learning
As schools closed their doors for the summer, many parents have the same question on their minds; "How will my child keep up with their learning and not fall behind?" Whether your child is in kindergarten or going into their final year of secondary school, the concern about whether children will "lose" their learning over summer is universal.
The first thing to think about is how hard your child has worked over the course of the school year. Everyone needs a break from the academic routine. This is not to say that learning is not important over the summer. It is very important to remember that some of the most meaningful learning occurs outside the walls and halls of school buildings.
Summer is the perfect time for your child to reduce their time in the electronic world and connect with the outdoors, friends and family. Many children and adolescents become inspired by new experiences which can develop leadership, environmental and global learning.
Spending family time allows everyone to reconnect and share experiences. A simple task like preparing for a family expedition or celebration integrates many aspects of learning for younger students. Summer is a wonderful time for students of all ages to enhance their creativity and critical thinking.
Photo-journaling experiences at camp, home or holiday allows children and adolescents to capture the highlights, document those experiences in writing and use technology in photography. Once you have the ideas captured in pictures and writing, take it one step further and help your child publish a keep-sake book on the computer. Photo book software such as photoinpress.ca offers excellent opportunities for creative expression.
The Toronto Public Library is often over-looked and underused when parents are considering options for summer learning. Many branches of the library offer enriching programs and resources for children from birth through teens. Of note is their "E-Book" program. With a Toronto Library card, your child can download over 4.000 books to read or listen to when away from the internet. They are also accessible to read on computers, laptops and tablets. What a great way to pack rich literature into every suitcase!
If your child requires some reading support over the summer, consider the Leading to Reading program at the library, offering high quality resources to support reading readiness (grades 1-6). Finally, teens can partake in several programs, including, "Young Voices Writing and Art Workshops", as well as volunteering at the library. For more information about summer learning opportunities for families, children and teens at the Toronto Public Library, visit torontopubliclibrary.ca.
Math concepts can be strengthened by using various websites. One of my favorites is Khan Academy, khanacademy.org (early math through secondary school). Also noteworthy is multiplication.com.
Reading for simple pleasure in a relaxing environment allows students to choose whatever book they wish, which is not always the case during classroom studies. Take your child/adolescent to the library or bookstore, when you both have time to explore the world of literature. For emerging readers, try the "5 Finger” rule.
Ask your child to read the first page of a book and put one finger up for each word they struggle to read. If 5 fingers go up before the end of the first page, the book is too hard. Remember that many people prefer non-fiction over fiction, and there is a world of rich, non-fiction material. Once your child has chosen a book, share the reading. Allow all students to appreciate the richness of text and language.
Ask your child some key questions when reading, not only about the factual information (what, where and when) but the "whys" of what he/she is reading. Ask questions that require critical thinking, i.e., "What do you think will happen next?" or "If you were that person/character, how would you handle the situation?" Always encourage young readers to use picture cues to help them develop their comprehension.
Adolescent readers love to share titles with friends. Many e-readers allow readers to share their favorite book titles electronically, and even preview them before purchasing. Whether your child prefers to read books or e-readers, encourage them to relish the joys of losing oneself in a great book this summer! Is there a better time to relax and read for the love of it?
For more information about accessing summer reading lists, please contact:
Nancy Lerner Educational Consulting
www.nancylerner.ca E: nancylernerconsulting@gmail.com T: 416.886.7552