How to Stay on Track During the Summer

As the school year winds down, we know everyone is looking forward to a well-deserved break. Summer is a wonderful time for rest, travel, and unstructured fun, but it can also become very easy for those hard-earned learning habits to slip during the long break.

We wanted to share a few thoughts on how we can keep students on track without killing the summer vibe. With just a little intention, we can maintain academic momentum so they return to school ready to thrive.

Elementary School: Keep Learning Playful

For younger students, the goal is to make learning feel like discovery rather than a chore. You can easily sneak in math during everyday moments, like measuring ingredients for a recipe or keeping score during a family board game. To keep literacy skills sharp, encourage a simple "20-minute rule" for daily reading, whether it’s comics or storybooks, and nurture their independent learning by letting them dive deep into whatever topics they are naturally curious about right now.

Middle School: Build Independence and Skills

Middle schoolers are ready for more responsibility, but they still need guidance to stay engaged. We recommend helping them set small "micro-goals," such as finishing a specific book series or mastering a new hobby. This is also a great age to combine social fun with skill-building through camps or group projects. At home, encourage them to read for pleasure, but make time to chat with them about their books to keep those critical literacy and reflection skills active.

High School: Prepare for the Year Ahead

For high schoolers, summer is strategic, but they must recharge to avoid starting the next year exhausted. We can look to identify one or two subjects where they felt shaky this year and dedicate a little weekly time to strengthening that foundation. Beyond review, this is the perfect time for independent passion projects to add depth to their college applications, as well as listening to podcasts or reading articles that challenge their thinking and analysis skills.

Above all, prioritize balance. A well-rested student returns to school more focused and motivated than an overworked one. We hope you have a wonderful summer full of relaxation and exploration.