Preventing Summer Slide Tips

Don't Let the Summer Slide Steal Your Child’s Progress

Summer is a time for sunshine, fun, and freedom—but it can also be a time when children forget what they’ve worked so hard to learn during the school year. This learning loss, often called the “summer slide,” can set students back academically, especially in reading and math. But the good news is: it’s preventable!

At Martin’s Children’s Books, we believe learning can be joyful year-round. Here are some fun and easy ways to keep your child’s brain active while still enjoying summer break:

1. Read Every Day—Even Just 15 Minutes

Reading for just 15–20 minutes a day helps children retain vocabulary and comprehension skills. Choose books that match their interests and reflect their identity. Our titles like Black Girl Be You and ABC’s of Kindergarten are perfect for promoting self-confidence and early literacy.

2. Make Math Meaningful

From counting seashells to measuring ingredients in a recipe, math is everywhere! Our book Surrounded by Numbers encourages kids to see math in the world around them. Turn everyday moments into learning opportunities with simple counting games or math-based scavenger hunts.

3. Color, Create, and Learn

Creative play reinforces fine motor skills, focus, and self-expression. Our seasonal coloring books and affirmation pages are great for quiet learning time. Encourage your child to color while discussing the positive messages on each page—they’ll be building emotional literacy while having fun.

4. Keep a Simple Summer Schedule

Even a loose routine can help children feel secure and stay on track. Set aside morning or afternoon blocks for reading, outdoor play, screen-free time, and creative activities. A balanced day sets the stage for continued learning.

5. Make Learning a Family Affair

Learning doesn’t have to be solitary. Read books aloud together, solve puzzles as a family, or ask your child to “teach” you something they learned this year. This builds confidence and deepens understanding.

Tools from Martin’s Children’s Books

We’ve designed our books and digital resources to support parents and educators in keeping children engaged. Whether you’re traveling, relaxing at home, or on the go, our learning kits and activity books make it easy to mix play and learning.

Let’s work together to make this summer enriching and fun. Because when kids are surrounded by books, imagination, and love, there’s no sliding back—only leaping forward.

Explore our summer-friendly products here.

Summer Workbook Bundle

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