Summer vacation is just around the corner! It's a time for students to unwind, recharge, and maybe even catch up on some sleep. But for parents, it can also be a time for the dreaded "summer slide" – the loss of learning that can happen when kids are away from school for an extended period.

So, how do we create a summer that's both academically productive and full of fun and relaxation? Here are some tips for students and parents to work together and design the perfect summer break:

Planning for Success

Set SMART Goals: Together, students and parents can brainstorm some goals for the summer. Are there any specific skills that need a boost? Perhaps vocabulary needs a refresh, or maybe some extra practice with math facts would be helpful. Keep the goals Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-Bound (SMART) This will help students stay focused and motivated.
Branch out to find (or deepen) a passion: Many students have little choice in what they study at school, apart from the odd elective — summer is an opportunity for growth outside the traditional subject areas, too. How about learning to identify all the species of trees in your neighborhood? Or picking up a book on chess strategy to explore? Setting a goal and building a plan to reach that goal is a process that will itself build transferable skills, even beyond what students happen to learn about botany, chess, or whatever their particular interest is.
Find the Fun in Learning: Likewise, summer is an important reminder that learning doesn't have to consist of straightforward lectures and endless worksheets. Explore online resources, educational games, or even themed family outings to museums or historical sites.

Balancing the Schedule

Block Out Time: Treat the summer break like a school semester, with a schedule that allocates time for academics, fun activities, relaxation, and chores. This will help students stay organized and avoid feeling overwhelmed, while making progress toward their goals.
Make Space for Relaxation: Downtime is crucial! Schedule in breaks for pleasure reading, spending time with friends, or simply doing nothing at all. A well-rested student is a student ready to learn.

Spark Curiosity and Creativity

Embrace Independent Learning: Encourage students to take ownership and delve deeper into subjects they find fascinating. Whether it's astronomy, a new instrument, or creative writing, there are countless online resources, youtube tutorials, and libraries overflowing with materials to fuel their curiosity.
Find Community: At the same time, balance that independence with community events where we all learn together — whether that means a local library reading challenge, volunteer events that give students a chance to give back, or a coding camp to kickstart a new skill.

Making it a Team Effort

Open Communication: Communication is key! Talk to your kids about their goals and interests for the summer. Be flexible and open to their ideas, while also providing guidance and support.
Celebrate Achievements: Acknowledge and celebrate even small victories throughout the summer. This will help students stay motivated and keep them on track with their goals.

Remember, the ideal summer break is a balanced one. By incorporating these tips, students can enter the new school year feeling refreshed, recharged, and ready to learn!