But taking a break from school doesn’t have to mean giving up learning.

Many students experience what’s known as the Summer Slide, or summer learning loss, a decline in academic skills that can happen during the long summer break. The good news? Preventing it doesn’t require hours of worksheets or turning your home into a classroom.

In fact, just a few simple habits can help your child stay confident, curious, and ready for the new school year, all while still enjoying summer.

1. Make Reading Part of the Daily Routine

Reading is one of the easiest and most effective ways to keep learning going over the summer.

Whether it’s novels, graphic novels, magazines, comics, or audiobooks, encouraging your child to read for just 15–20 minutes each day helps strengthen vocabulary, comprehension, and critical thinking skills.

The key is to let them choose what interests them. Reading for enjoyment builds stronger lifelong readers than reading out of obligation.

2. Turn Everyday Activities into Math Practice

Math is everywhere. You just have to know where to look.

Try involving your child in everyday tasks like:

• Measuring ingredients while cooking
• Calculating grocery totals
• Estimating travel times on road trips or commutes
• Comparing prices while shopping
• Counting change or budgeting for treats

These real-world experiences help children see that math is useful, practical, and even fun.

Discover more on how to prevent the summer slide in our Ultimate Guide to summer learning!

3. Encourage Writing Without the Pressure

Writing doesn’t have to mean essays.

Encourage your child to:

• Keep a summer journal
• Write postcards to family members
• Create stories or comic strips 
• Make lists for upcoming adventures

Fun writing activities help maintain spelling, grammar, creativity, and communication skills without feeling like homework.

4. Play Games That Challenge the Brain

Many favourite family games naturally build important academic skills.

Board games, card games, puzzles, and strategy games encourage children to think critically, solve problems, plan ahead, and strengthen their memory.

Best of all, they’re a great excuse to spend quality time together.

5. Visit Your Local Library

Libraries offer much more than books.

Many host free summer reading programs, crafts, STEM activities, book clubs, and family events that make learning exciting and accessible.

A weekly library visit can quickly become a favourite summer tradition.

6. Explore the Outdoors

Nature is one of the best classrooms.

Go for hikes, visit local parks, plant a garden, or observe insects and wildlife together. Encourage your child to ask questions, make observations, and explore how the world works.

These experiences naturally build science knowledge, curiosity, and observation skills.

7. Keep Learning Fun

Summer learning shouldn’t feel like another school day.

Short activities are often more effective than long study sessions. Focus on games, conversations, exploration, and hands-on experiences instead of drills and worksheets.

When children enjoy learning, they’re much more likely to stay engaged.

8. Maintain a Flexible Routine

A consistent daily routine helps children stay balanced throughout the summer.

Simple habits like regular reading time, outdoor play, meals, and bedtime routines provide structure while still leaving plenty of room for spontaneous summer fun.

Even small routines can make the transition back to school much easier.

9. Celebrate Curiosity

Summer is the perfect time to let your child’s interests lead the way.

If they love space, dinosaurs, baking, coding, music, or animals, encourage them to explore those passions through books, videos, museums, experiments, or community events.

When children are genuinely interested in a topic, learning happens naturally.

10. Get Extra Support to Avoid the Summer Slide

Not every child needs summer tutoring, but for some students, it can make a big difference.

If your child struggled during the school year, lost confidence in a particular subject, or is preparing for a transition year (such as entering Grade 9), summer offers a relaxed opportunity to strengthen skills without the pressure of homework and tests.

Personalized tutoring can help close learning gaps, build confidence, and ensure students start the new school year feeling prepared.

A Little Learning Goes a Long Way

Preventing the Summer Slide doesn’t mean giving up summer fun. In fact, the best learning often happens through everyday experiences, family conversations, outdoor adventures, and activities children genuinely enjoy.

By building a few simple learning habits into your child’s summer routine, you can help them stay engaged, confident, and ready for a successful return to school.

And if your family needs a little extra support along the way, 91°”Íű is here to help make learning enjoyable all summer long.

Find a location near you for summer tutoring today!

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For some students, summer is a time of growth, confidence, and new skills. For others, two months away from learning can lead to academic setbacks, making the transition back to school more difficult.

When fall arrives, and teachers ask, “How was your summer?”, what story will your child tell?

Help your child make the most of their summer break with an engaging, personalized summer tutoring program at 91°”Íű that is designed to prevent summer learning loss, strengthen academic skills, and build confidence for the year ahead.

Why Summer Learning Matters

Many students will lose academic ground over the summer. This is called the “summer slide,” which can affect reading, writing, and math, as well as overall academic confidence.

The good news? Just a few hours of structured learning each week can help students maintain their skills and even get ahead before the new school year begins.

Summer learning isn’t about taking away summer fun. It’s about creating opportunities for growth while helping children stay engaged, curious, and confident.

Avoid the summer slide! Check out our for everything you need to support summer success.

With Summer Tutoring Programs, Your Child Can:

Catch Up and Get Ahead

Summer is the perfect time to catch up and get ahead for the new school year. Whether your child needs extra help with a particular subject during the school year or is ready for an academic challenge, summer is an opportunity ready for the taking.

Build Stronger Learning and Thinking Skills

Success in school goes beyond memorization. Our summer tutoring programs help students develop critical thinking, problem-solving, organization, and independent learning skills that support achievement across all subjects.

Boost Confidence for the New School Year

Confidence plays a major role in academic success, no matter the student! When students experience progress and achievement, they return to school feeling prepared, capable, and ready to participate.

Enjoy Engaging, Research-Based Learning

91°”Íű’s proven approach combines cognitive learning with active thinking to create summer tutoring programs that keep students motivated and involved.

Develop Creative Problem-Solving Skills

Students need the ability to think creatively, analyze information, and solve problems effectively. Our summer tutoring programs help build these valuable lifelong skills.

Summer Tutoring Programs at 91°”Íű

91°”Íű summer tutoring programs don’t feel like more school.

Each student’s learning plan is personalized to their needs, strengths, and goals. Through fun instruction, supportive teachers, and targeted academic activities, students stay motivated while making meaningful progress.

Our summer tutoring programs are designed to help students:

• Improve reading and writing skills
• Strengthen math confidence
• Develop critical thinking abilities
• Build study and learning skills
• Prepare for upcoming grades

Instead of spending the fall trying to catch up, students can start the school year feeling prepared and confident.

Write Your Child’s Summer Success Story

This summer can be more than a break from school: it can be a season of growth, confidence, and achievement.

When the new school year begins, give your child a story worth telling.

Write your child’s summer success story with an 91°”Íű summer tutoring program.

Contact us today to learn more about our summer tutoring and enrichment programs and reserve your child’s spot.

Find a location near you for summer tutoring today!

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At home, many families also work to improve routines, limit screen time, and encourage healthier sleep habits.

However, another factor often overlooked in learning success is time spent outdoors!

continues to show a strong connection between nature, physical activity, and cognitive development in children. In other words, getting outside during the summer may actually help kids return to school more focused, healthier, and ready to learn.

Why Outdoor Time Matters for Learning

The term has been discussed for decades, but educators and researchers are now taking the idea more seriously. Spending time outdoors supports both physical and mental health, which, in turn, directly impacts academic performance.

Summer outdoor activity creates benefits in multiple ways.

1. Outdoor Activity Supports Physical Health

Playing outside regularly helps combat the growing rates of childhood inactivity and obesity. Movement helps build healthier bodies and stronger habits.

Some great activities included: 

• Biking 
• Climbing 
• Swimming 
• Running 

Healthy kids are often better equipped to focus, manage stress, and stay engaged in school.

2. Nature Helps the Brain

Physical activity increases blood flow to the brain, which supports brain function, neural connections, and cognitive development.

Time outdoors has also been linked to:

• Improved mood
• Reduced stress and anxiety
• Better concentration
• Increased focus
• Stronger emotional regulation

These benefits can make all the difference when students return to the classroom in the fall.

3. Being in Nature Reduces Screen Time

Summer can quickly become dominated by tablets, video games, and endless scrolling. Outdoor activities naturally create a break from screens while encouraging creativity, curiosity, and social interaction.

Even simple outdoor experiences can help children reset mentally and emotionally.

Start Healthy Habits Early

suggest that physical activity levels at age four can help predict activity levels later in adolescence.

This means that the habits kids develop in their younger years can greatly influence their long-term health and lifestyle choices into their teenage years and beyond. 

Encouraging outdoor play during childhood doesn’t just create summer memories; it helps build routines that can last for years.

Easy Outdoor Activities for Kids This Summer

You don’t need expensive camps or elaborate plans to help kids benefit from nature. Some of the most valuable activities are simple, free, and fun!

Here are a few easy ideas to add to your family’s summer bucket list:

• Fly a kite
• Learn how to skip a stone
• Make a mud pie
• Climb a tree
• Plant a garden
• Explore a pond
• Learn to use a compass
• Go on a nature scavenger hunt
• Take evening walks as a family

These fun activities encourage children to explore, move, be creative, and gain confidence, all skills that support learning.

Summer Learning Isn’t Only Academic

While summer tutoring and educational support can help prevent learning loss, balance matters too.

Children need opportunities to move, explore, imagine, and recharge. Outdoor play helps support cognitive wellness while giving kids the mental reset they need before another school year begins.

So this summer, don’t underestimate the power of nature. Apply the sunscreen and encourage kids to spend more time outside.

It may help them return to school healthier, happier, and more prepared to succeed.

Need an extra boost of learning? Contact an 91°”Íű centre to see how we can help your child this summer. 

Find a location near you!

Editor’s note: this post was originally published in 2012 and redited in 2026.

The post The Need For Nature this Summer appeared first on 91°”Íű.

Did you know students can lose up to two months of learning over the summer? The key to avoiding this ‘summer slide’ isn’t cramming—it’s building smart, simple habits early on.

Here are some summer learning tips to turn July into your family’s secret weapon for a successful back-to-school.

Why Starting Early Matters

Waiting until the end of August to prepare for school can leave students feeling overwhelmed and unmotivated. By contrast, easing into a learning mindset during July helps students:

• Build confidence and motivation
• Reinforce academic skills
• Reduce back-to-school anxiety
• Adjust to structured routines

Summer learning tip: Creating consistency during the summer sets a solid foundation for back-to-school.

Avoid the summer slide! Check out our for everything you need to support summer success.

1. Reset Daily Routines

Sleep schedules, screen time, and meal habits often shift during the summer. Use July to gradually reintroduce school-year routines:

• Set earlier bedtimes and wake-up times
• Create a consistent morning routine
• Limit screen time during the day
• Encourage healthy meals and snacks

Kids thrive on routine, and these small changes help their brains and bodies adjust ahead of time.

2. Build Learning into the Day

Learning doesn’t have to mean long study sessions. In July, aim for short, focused activities that keep academic skills sharp:

• Read together daily
• Practice basic math during errands
• Encourage journal writing or creative storytelling
• Use educational apps or games

Summer learning tip: Just 20 minutes a day can help keep learning fresh and fun.

3. Support Executive Function Skills

Organization, time management, and problem-solving are crucial school skills. Summer is a great time to develop them through:

• Chore charts or daily checklists
• Planning fun outings or activities together
• Playing board games that involve strategy or logic

These activities help build independence and responsibility.

4. Refresh Academic Basics

A little academic review goes a long way. Focus on core subjects like math, reading, and writing:

• Review last year’s report card for areas that need improvement
• Practice age-appropriate workbooks or worksheets
• Try hands-on projects related to science or history

Summer learning tip: This low-pressure review helps students feel ready for new material in the fall.

5. Get a Head Start with Summer Tutoring

Tutoring in July helps students:

• Reinforce skills they struggled with
• Preview new concepts for the year ahead
• Build study habits and self-discipline

91°”Íű’s customized programs help students of all ages make the most of summer and start school with confidence.

Make This Summer Count

A few intentional changes in July can transform how students feel about going back to school. By easing into routines, refreshing academics, and building confidence now, families can set the stage for a smooth and successful school year.

Want to learn how 91°”Íű can help your child get ahead before school starts? Contact your local centre today!

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Without the stress of daily homework or tests, kids have the space to grow. The best part? That growth doesn’t have to be academic to make a big impact when school returns.

Why Confidence Is the Real Secret to School Success

Confidence affects everything from participation to perseverance. When building confidence in kids, they’ll start to believe in themselves, and they are more likely to:

• Raise their hand, even if unsure
• Take on new challenges
• Ask questions and seek help
• Bounce back after setbacks

It’s not about being perfect—it’s about feeling capable and prepared to try.

Summer learning starts here! Get insights on how to

3 Ways to Build Confidence in Kids This Summer

1. Celebrate Small Wins, Daily

Confidence builds through achievement, no matter how small. Try setting simple, meaningful goals for your kids, such as:

• Read for 15 minutes without distractions
• Cook a new recipe together
• Learn a new card game or creative skill

Every small success reinforces, “I can do this,” and builds confidence in kids.

2. Promote Independent Thinking

Summer is a great time to help kids take the lead in everyday decisions:

• Let them plan part of the weekly schedule
• Ask for their input on family outings or meals
• Encourage them to solve problems with your guidance

These moments give children a sense of ownership over their day and their learning.

3. Create a Confidence-Friendly Environment

Confidence grows where curiosity is encouraged. Try to:

• Keep books, puzzles, or games easily accessible
• Show interest in their thoughts and ideas
• Normalize mistakes as part of learning

Even casual conversations, such as “What would you do in that situation?” boost self-trust and emotional resilience.

When Extra Support Makes a Big Difference

Some kids need a little extra help to feel confident heading into a new school year, and that’s okay!

Summer tutoring at 91°”Íű is about more than just academics:

• It’s a safe, supportive space to ask questions
• It’s a chance to revisit tough concepts without judgment
• It’s a way to learn new strategies that build real confidence

Our programs are customized to each student’s needs, helping them walk into class ready to participate, engage, and believe in themselves.

Confidence Starts Now

There’s still plenty of time to make summer count. Whether through simple routines, open conversations, or a little extra support, helping your child feel more confident now can transform how they experience school this fall.

Want to give your child a boost before school starts?

Contact your local 91°”Íű centre and ask about our summer programs for a confidence boost.

Find a Location

The post How to Turn Summer Break Into a Confidence Boost for the School Year Ahead appeared first on 91°”Íű.

Learning Beyond the Classroom

In traditional settings, learning tends to follow a cycle: ramp up in August/September, slow down in May/June, and pause during school breaks. But this stop-start approach can lead to a loss of momentum, especially during longer breaks like summer or winter holidays. We call this the summer slide. How can we prevent the summer slide? 

Well, that’s where 91°”Íű comes into play.

We approach learning as a continuous journey for year-round learning, not a seasonal event. Whether students are on summer vacation, winter break, or somewhere in between, our programs are designed to keep their minds engaged and growing. 

The result? Stronger academic performance, better confidence, and a lifelong love of learning.

Summer? Still Learning.

Summer learning loss, also known as the “summer slide,” is real. shows that students can lose up to two months of academic progress over the summer. That means each fall starts with playing catch-up instead of building on what was learned the year before.

We turn summer into a time of growth. With customized programs, flexible schedules, and fun, interactive lessons, students strengthen their skills, explore new subjects, and build momentum for the school year ahead.

Instead of falling behind, our students move forward.

School Break? Still Building Brainpower.

School breaks, such as winter or spring break, are a chance to rest, but they’re also a chance to reinforce learning in impactful ways. 

Our year-round learning tutoring programs help students:

• Review challenging concepts in a stress-free setting
• Stay in a routine that supports focus and discipline
• Boost skills like reading, writing, and math without the classroom pressure
• Return to school feeling confident, not overwhelmed

Whether it’s a long weekend, a winter holiday, or spring break, our programs meet students where they’re at and help them get where they want to go.

91°”Íű? Still Changing the Game.

What makes 91°”Íű different isn’t just what we teach, it’s how we teach and why we teach. We go beyond memorization. Our focus is on developing the cognitive learning skills that drive real, lasting success:

• Critical thinking
• Organization and time management
• Problem-solving
• Motivation and confidence
• Independent learning habits
  

When students see learning as something they own, not something that’s assigned to them, their mindset shifts, they become more curious, engaged, and resilient, and that mindset lasts far beyond the classroom.

Real Results. Real Growth. Year-Round Learning for the Win!

Parents often tell us how surprised they are to see their child voluntarily reading during the summer, or excited to attend a learning session over the break. That’s not magic, it’s motivation. It’s what happens when learning becomes part of who you are, not just something you do during school hours.

And it works.

Our students consistently show improvements in academic performance, self-confidence, and overall engagement in school. They don’t just get better grades. They become better learners.

Make Learning a Lifestyle All Year Round

We believe every moment is a learning opportunity, whether school is in session or not. When students embrace this mindset, they stop seeing learning as a chore and start seeing it as a tool for growth, creativity, and confidence.

Ready for Year-Round Learning?

Contact your local 91°”Íű centre to learn more about our year-round programs and how we can help your child become an unstoppable learner.

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However, while looking forward to summer break, many parents and students don’t realize that between of students can lose academic ground over the summer. That’s not just a stat—it’s real loss of learning that occurs every fall when students return to school, forgetting their times tables or struggling to get back into reading routines.

This is what’s known as the summer slide. And the good news? It’s preventable.

What Exactly Is Summer Learning Loss?

Summer learning loss happens when kids take a full academic break for two (or more) months. Without practice or reinforcement, skills in core areas such as math, reading, and writing start to fade. Think of it like a muscle: it weakens if you don’t use it.

This doesn’t mean kids need a full school schedule during summer. But a little bit of learning—just a few hours a week—can go a long way toward keeping those skills fresh.

It Doesn’t Have to Be Boring

The words “summer” and “learning” don’t usually go together in a kid’s mind, but they should! The trick is to make summer learning fun, interactive, and low-pressure.

Think math games, creative writing challenges, reading books that kids actually want to read, and hands-on science experiments that feel more like play than school. The goal isn’t to overwhelm students—it’s to help them stay engaged and confident.

The best summer learning programs do exactly that: they combine fun with purpose, helping kids maintain momentum without burning out.

Keep the Routine (Just a Little Bit)

One of the hardest parts of the back-to-school season is getting back into the routine. A completely unstructured summer can make September feel like hitting a wall. Kids are tired, out of practice, and often frustrated when school starts.

Adding just a touch of structure to summer routines—say, scheduled reading time or weekly math practice—helps students stay in the zone, so returning to school is exciting, not stressful.

Avoid the summer slide! Check out our for everything you need to support summer success.

Summer Is a Great Time to Get Ahead

Summer isn’t just about catching up—it’s also the perfect time to get ahead.

When students review material from the past year and preview content for the next grade, they walk into the classroom in the fall feeling confident and prepared. That head start can make a huge difference, especially for students who struggled with certain subjects during the school year.

A Little Effort Now, Big Payoff Later

We all want our kids to have a relaxing summer. But that doesn’t mean letting go of learning completely. A balanced summer, with plenty of fun and a little academic time, can help students retain what they’ve learned and start next year strong.

So, instead of spending the first few weeks of school reviewing old material, your child could be moving forward, raising their hand confidently, and building a strong foundation.

Stop Summer Learning Loss

Summer learning doesn’t have to mean sacrificing fun. It’s about keeping the brain active, staying curious, and continuing to grow—even if it’s just a little bit each week.

Next year’s school success begins in the summer. With the right support, your child can beat summer learning loss and head into the new school year feeling motivated, prepared, and ready to shine.

Want to learn more about how to keep learning going this summer, without the stress?

Discover how our summer programs are designed to keep kids engaged, confident, and having fun.

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The post Summer Learning Loss Is Real—But It Doesn’t Have to Be appeared first on 91°”Íű.

Summer learning can take many forms, including structured programs, independent study, educational camps, and online courses. These opportunities provide students with academic reinforcement and enrichment, ensuring they return to school prepared for the new academic year.

Click the links below to jump to a specific section, or read through the entire guide for a complete overview of summer learning.

1. Why is summer learning important? 
2. Common causes of summer learning loss. 
3. How to prevent the summer slide.
4. Types of summer learning programs. 
5. How to make summer learning fun and engaging. 
6. Long-term benefits of learning during the summer.

Why Is Learning In the Summer Important?

The summer months are an important time for students to help and reinforce the academic skills they gained during the school year. Without consistent academic engagement, many students experience a decline in their skills, making the transition back to school more difficult. Learning during the summer helps bridge this gap by keeping students’ minds active and engaged.

Benefits of learning during the summer months include:

• Prevention of learning loss helps students retain information and stay sharp for the upcoming school year.
• Stronger academic performance prepares students for new concepts and reduces the need for review in the fall.
• Increased confidence, keeping students engaged and confident in their abilities, reducing back-to-school anxiety.
• Flexible learning allows students to explore subjects they enjoy at their own pace.
• Preparation for future success equips students with the skills they need for high school, college, and beyond.

Common Causes of Summer Learning Loss

Summer learning loss is also known as the summer slide. Many factors contribute to the summer slide, but the main reason is a lack of academic engagement during the summer break. When students are not actively practising skills such as reading, writing, or math, they tend to forget information and struggle to regain it when school starts again.

Some of the common causes of the summer slide include:

• Lack of academic practice and lack of regular learning activities can cause students to lose up to of math and reading skills.
• Students spend up to 6 weeks or more re-learning old material in the fall semester to make up for summer learning loss.
• Students without educational resources such as books, learning programs, or enrichment activities may fall behind their peers.
• A structured school schedule provides consistent learning opportunities, which are often lost during summer.
• Without challenges and problem-solving exercises, cognitive skills can weaken over time.

How to Prevent the Summer Slide

Preventing the summer slide doesn’t require a painstaking school schedule, but it does involve keeping children engaged in meaningful, educational activities. With a mix of structured learning and fun experiences, students can continue to grow academically throughout the summer.

Here are some ways to prevent the summer slide:

• Read Regularly. Encourage daily reading to maintain literacy skills and comprehension abilities.
• Practise Math Skills. Use workbooks, online games, or real-world applications like budgeting or measuring ingredients.
• Enrol in a Summer Program. Summer tutoring, educational camps, and online courses help keep students engaged.
• Encourage Writing Activities. Journaling, creative writing, or sending letters to friends and family can reinforce writing skills.
• Incorporate Educational Games. Board games, puzzles, and learning apps make learning fun and interactive.
• Explore Hands-On Learning. Activities like cooking, gardening, or science experiments provide practical learning experiences.
• Maintain a Learning Routine. Setting aside a little time each day for academic activities helps build consistency.

Learn more about how to prevent the summer slide.

Types of Summer Programs

Summer learning comes in many different formats, each catering to specific needs, interests, and academic goals. Choosing the right program depends on a student’s learning style and areas of interest.

Here are some of the most common types of summer learning programs:

• Summer tutoring programs offer one-on-one or small-group support to reinforce academic skills.
• Camps with educational components incorporate STEM, arts, or language learning into fun activities.
• Library and Reading Programs feature summer reading challenges and literacy activities at local libraries.
• University Prep courses help high school students prepare for college applications, SATs, or ACTs.
• STEM and Coding Camps offer hands-on experiences in coding, robotics, and other technical skills.
• Project-based learning programs engage students in creative projects that develop real-world problem-solving skills.

Making Summer Learning Fun and Engaging

Learning over the summer doesn’t have to feel like a chore. Students can stay engaged by incorporating fun, interactive, and hands-on activities while still enjoying their break.

One way to make learning during the summertime enjoyable is to turn it into an adventure. Visiting museums, historical sites, and science centers can provide immersive learning experiences that bring subjects to life. Another approach is to gamify education by using apps, quizzes, and games that encourage problem-solving and critical thinking. These interactive tools make learning more dynamic and enjoyable.

Encouraging creative projects is another great way to keep students engaged. Activities like art, music, and DIY projects allow them to explore new skills while having fun. Taking learning outdoors can also enhance the experience. Nature walks, gardening, and outdoor science experiments provide hands-on opportunities to explore and discover.

Finally, setting learning goals with rewards can help motivate students to stay on track. Reaching goals creates a sense of achievement and encourages consistency, making learning both productive and enjoyable.

Learn more about 91°”Íű’s summer programs.

Summer Learning—The Long-Term Benefits

Engaging in summer learning doesn’t just prevent the learning slide—it provides long-term benefits that help students develop essential academic and life skills. By incorporating structured educational activities into summer break, students return to school with improved confidence, stronger skills, and a readiness to succeed.

Long-term benefits include:

• Better Academic Performance. Students who engage in summer learning perform better in the new school year.
• Increased Retention of Knowledge. Less time is spent reviewing old material, allowing for a stronger start to the school year.
• Improved Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving Skills. Learning during the summer promotes independent thinking and creativity.
• Development of Lifelong Learning Habits. Summer learning encourages curiosity, self-motivation, and continuous personal growth.

By prioritizing learning this summer, parents and students can turn the break into a time of enrichment, exploration, and skill-building, setting the foundation for future success.

Finding the Right Summer Program

With so many options available, selecting the right summer program for a child can feel overwhelming. Before making a decision, it’s essential to consider individual learning needs, interests, and goals.

Start by thinking about your child’s interests. Choosing a program that aligns with subjects or activities they enjoy will keep them engaged and motivated. Academic needs are another key factor—identifying areas where reinforcement is needed, such as math, reading, or science, can help narrow down the best options.

Flexibility is important when planning. A program that fits your family’s schedule ensures a stress-free experience. Finally, researching programs, reading reviews, and asking for recommendations from teachers or other parents can help you make an informed choice.

At 91°”Íű, we offer personalized programs throughout the year designed to keep students learning, engaged, and ready for the next school year.

Find an 91°”Íű location near you and discover how we can make summer both effective and enjoyable!

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Why not try some of these old-fashioned car games? Combine old-school memory work with a fun challenge to keep kids engaged and learning. Not only are these games fun, but they also help develop memory and listening skills!

Fun and Educational Road Trip Games

The I-Packed-a-Suitcase Game

In the repeat-after-me tradition of games, the always-popular suitcase game stands out. Not only is it fun, but it’s also a great way to develop your child’s memory.

Here are the simple rules:

The first person begins with the sentence: “I packed a suitcase, and in it, I put
” followed by an item of that person’s choice, such as “a toothbrush.”

The second person also starts with the same statement: “I packed a suitcase, and in it, I put
” Then, they repeat what the first person said and add their own item: “a toothbrush and a bathing suit,” and so on, until someone forgets to list one of the items!

You can adjust the level of difficulty and absurdity according to your mood, such as packing a battering ram or an elephant
you never know when you’ll need one!

Learn more about .

Backwards Listening Game

This is a great game to encourage listening abilities. You say a series of random words and have your child repeat them to you in the opposite order! For example:

• You: shirt, cow
• Child: cow, shirt

Start with two words and increase the number as proficiency improves. Or, if you’re feeling up to it, create a backward sentence so that when your child says it back to you, they are decoding your message! Hilarity is sure to ensue!

• You: cheese, like, smell, socks, Dad’s
• Child: Dad’s socks smell like cheese!

The Alphabet List Game

An all-time favourite is the Alphabet List Game. It’s a very simple game that can encourage creative thinking.

Using the alphabet as a guide, select a theme, and create an alphabetized list according to that theme. Some good themes are animals, cities, fruits and vegetables, sports teams, pizza toppings, and underwater. The possibilities are endless!

Now select someone to start. They begin with the letter A and, based on the category chosen, give an example of something that begins with the letter A. For animals, it would be alligators; for cities, it would be Amsterdam. Then the next person gets the letter B, the following person the letter C
and so on, until somebody can’t think of an example for that letter. Some letters are more challenging than others, so everybody is allowed one pass.

The Classic Game of ‘I-Spy’

The old “I Spy With My Little Eye” game is always popular with younger children. Simply select anything in the car or room and say, “I spy with my little eye, something that is [that colour].” Then, the kids take turns guessing what the item is. Adjust the difficulty to meet the child’s age.

Tip: When kids are stumped, give them a phonetic clue. For instance, “It starts with the sound ‘mmmm’.”

Twenty Questions

Think of something simple
it can be anything at all, though regular play usually limits the choice to something that falls into animal, vegetable, or mineral categories.

When you’ve chosen your item, the game begins. Let the players know that you’ve selected something with the simple statement, “I’ve got it!” Then, the kids ask 20 questions to determine what the item is. The trick is that all answers must be a yes or a no; this way, the kids must phrase the questions in a specific way in order to get a yes or no answer.

This game is great for children’s practice of formulating questions in a structured way, and it’s even better for them to take all the replies and deduce the answer. What a fun way to develop critical thinking skills!

Next time you’re on a long road trip, try out these games to keep your kids entertained and engaged. Happy travels!

Find out more about how board games can promote learning.

Summer Learning Programs at 91°”Íű

While playing games that keep kids occupied and learning on road trips over the summer is great, the best way to keep children learning in the summer with with a summer program at 91°”Íű.

Our personalized programs ensure your child focuses on the areas needing the most support to help them get ready to excel once the new school year begins.

Summer programs are now enrolling. Find a location near you and schedule an assessment to get started.

The post Fun Road Trip Games for the Entire Family appeared first on 91°”Íű.

What is the Summer Slide?

The summer slide refers to the loss of academic skills and knowledge over the summer months. 

According to the , nearly half of parents are unaware of this phenomenon, yet it has a significant impact on student success. 

Researchers from the Kids & Family Reading Report estimate that by middle school, summer reading loss can accumulate to a two-year lag in reading achievement.

The Power of Summer Reading for Kids

Summer reading is not just a nice-to-have activity for kids; it’s essential for bridging the gap between school years. When kids engage in regular reading over the summer, they retain and build upon what they’ve learned during the school year, ensuring they start the next grade level on a strong footing.

, 77% of kids agree that reading during the summer helps them perform better in school. However, there is a troubling trend: an increasing number of children, especially older ones, report reading zero books over the summer. For instance, 32% of kids aged 15-17 read no books at all during their break. This trend is concerning as it signifies a missed opportunity for academic growth and development.

Find 10 more benefits of summer learning here.

Challenges and Solutions

Despite the benefits, the report indicates an increase in the number of children who do not read any books over the summer. Access to books is a significant issue, especially for underserved communities. 

The report found that 53% of children get most of their books from school, so when schools are closed, access to books decreases dramatically. 

Public libraries and community programs can play a crucial role in bridging this gap. Many libraries offer summer reading programs and events that encourage children to read. Additionally, community initiatives can help provide books to children who might not otherwise have access to them. For example, districts that provide books and literacy nights see a significant reduction in summer reading loss among students.

How Parents Can Help

Parents can take several steps to encourage summer reading:

• Visit the library: Regular library trips can provide children access to a wide range of books and reading materials.
• Set a routine: Incorporating reading into the daily routine can help make it a habit.
• Limit screen time: Reducing time spent on electronic devices can make more time for reading.
• Join reading programs: Many libraries and community centers offer summer reading programs that make reading fun and engaging.

Need More Reading Help This Summer? 

Summer reading is a vital activity that helps children maintain and improve their literacy skills, preventing the summer slide. 

91°”Íű understands the importance of summer reading and can help parents take steps to encourage it. If you feel your child needs reading help, reach out to a location near you.

Find a Location

The post Why Summer Reading is Crucial for Kids appeared first on 91°”Íű.