Why Every Child Needs Summer Education

Two-thirds of the “reading achievement gap can be explained by unequal access to summer learning opportunities during elementary school” says Lorna Smith in Slowing the Summer Slide. "The slide begins in elementary school," Smith says. Over time, the lack of access to learning opportunities accumulates, becoming a determinant of whether or not students follow a college-preparatory track.

Given their many responsibilities, parents may find it challenging to keep their children productive and academically engaged during the summer break. While we want our children to enjoy those carefree, exciting summers they dream of, we don't want them to lose their hard-earned progress and abilities.

The Benefits of Summer Academic Programs

To ensure a strong start to the upcoming school year, the importance of academic programs during the summer cannot be underestimated. 

Summer programs prepare children for the school year ahead and reinforce learning that has already been achieved. By participating in an educational summer course, students can become comfortable with new topics, from learning to read or building advanced mathematical skills, without the additional burdens of the academic year.

While it's important for children to remain intellectually stimulated during the summer break, the most effective summer activities involve both academic and social skills. Classroom environments are a great place where children can continue to build social skills and create strong friendships through the shared experience of classroom collaboration.

A summer educational program may not be something you've considered for your child before, but it can be a great opportunity for your child to stay prepared for the next academic year and make new friends. 

RSM's Summer Program is now enrolling! Learn more about our 6-week Summer Program and our new summer offerings, including STEAM, Full Day programs, and more, available at select RSM branches.