Combating the ‘summer slide’

Posted on: 7/30/24

Research shows that access to reading materials has been consistently identified as a vital element in enhancing the reading development of children. Over the summer months, it’s been shown that students can enter a “summer slide” or learning loss that occurs outside of school.

To combat the slide and keep students engaged outside of school, Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools created digital summer learning packets that contain 20 days of activities for elementary-grade students. The packets cover a variety of topics and include several activities and video lessons. 

“The summer learning packets are a great resource that provides texts and questions for parents to get their students ready and prepared for the upcoming grade,” said Teddi Ruddy, third grade teacher at Huntersville Elementary School. “The packets are a great extension to what students learned at the end of the school year, and then it’s a really nice build on to what they’re going to see. I like the bridge they’ve filled in the gap for the summer.”

Ruddy said students can have those "light bulb moments" when they can relate a topic in class to something they worked on while at home.

Eleni Amoroso also noticed her daughter Natalia’s progress in her reading. In addition to the packet, Natalia attends Read to Achieve Camp.

“Her growth has been amazing,” said Eleni. “I’ll help a little with some words, but other than that, I’ve seen such a growth in her in a short time.”

Natalia said she’s enjoying her summer learning and feels ready for the fourth grade.

“I think my reading has improved,” she said. “I’ve learned some tricks on how to comprehend when I’m reading a story.”