Preparing English Learners for Summer

The 'summer slide' is a real thing. When summer hits, many students digress in learning. Sadly, English learners can become victim to the 'Summer Slide'. We can help our students and their families by giving them some information before summer starts!

The best time to begin talking about summer activities is about a month or two before school lets out. Kids need to know how important it is that they don't stop learning just because school is out. 
​
Ways to Share 
Many teachers send home a summer Newsletter highlighting summer activities that keep the mind growing. A summer newsletter is helpful for some families but you may want to consider translating it or sending it out electronically. 

A teacher friend used to create amazing summer calendars for our students. They had great ideas to help kids stay fresh. She included community events as well as every day activities like "read to a friend or stuffed animal," "create a wanted poster for a lost toy," or "write a poem about your favorite food." Look at this super cute one from epic!

Technology can offer us new ways to keep students connected and learning alive all summer. For example, if students are using Instagram, Snapchat, or Twitter, with parental permission, you could create a hashtag and have a weekly chat or a slow chat documenting their summer adventures. The possibilities are endless! 

What to Share

• Websites
• What to do on a rainy day
• Reading lists
• Local Museums
  • Museum happenings
• Local Libraries
  • Library summer reading programs
• Events in the community
  • Book signings by popular authors
  • Parades
  • Fourth of July Celebrations
  • Free events
• Camps
  • Church and other
  • Youth clubs

Do you do something different? We would love to hear about it. Please share in the comments below. 
​