Just as summer begins, kids have one thing on their minds: friends, camp, and pool time. Reading and writing? Nowhere near their radar. It doesn’t exactly scream “summer fun.”

Welcome to the “Summer slump.”

Each year, teachers notice it: kids return to school in the fall having forgotten some of the reading and writing skills they worked so hard to build. This is called the summer slump, or more formally, summer learning loss—and it’s not just a myth.

Studies show that kids can lose up to TWO MONTHS of academic progress over the summer, especially in READING and WRITING. 

For struggling readers or students with dyslexia, the impact can be even greater. But the good news? You can help prevent the summer slide with just a few simple strategies at home.

✅ 5 Easy Ways to Prevent the Summer Slide

1. Create a Daily Reading Routine/Summer Reading Routine

Encourage your child to read every day for 15–20 minutes. Let them pick books they enjoy—chapter books, graphic novels, even joke books! Reading regularly helps kids maintain fluency and vocabulary all summer long.

2. Keep a Summer Writing Journal

A summer journal is a fun and low-pressure way to stay engaged in writing. Kids can write about their day, draw and label pictures, or respond to silly prompts. Even a few sentences a day can build confidence.

3. Use Free Library and Online Resources

Your local library is a treasure trove! Sign up for the summer reading challenge, check out new books, or attend free events. Online platforms like Epic!, Audible, Storyline Online, and TumbleBooks also offer great digital reading options.

4. Make Reading & Writing Fun

Turn reading and writing into games. Try word scavenger hunts, reading BINGO boards, or Mad Libs. Offer small rewards for goals met—it keeps kids motivated and excited to learn.

*You can find some of my fun activities in my Teachers Pay Teachers store: Innovative Instructor’s Oasis

*Looking for a Summer Bundle? Click here for some vocabulary and word work practice ☀️

5. Connect Literacy to Real Life

Ask kids to write grocery lists, follow a recipe, or read directions for a craft. Real-life reading and writing show kids that literacy isn’t just for school—it’s for everyday life.

✏️ Don’t Let Learning Slide This Summer

The summer slump is real, but it’s also preventable. Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or caregiver, adding a little bit of reading and writing to each day can make a big difference. These fun and flexible strategies will help your child stay sharp, confident, and ready for back-to-school success.