Keeping Kids Academically Engaged

Summer is a great time for students to relax, have fun, and explore their interests. However, for students with learning differences, it can be a challenging time as they may struggle to maintain the academic progress they made during the school year. As a parent or caregiver, it is important to help your students stay engaged and motivated over the summer. In this blog post, we will explore some tips that will help students with learning differences stay academically engaged during the summer months.

Create a learning environment

Creating an environment for learning doesn't need to be boring or tedious. You can do it in a fun and engaging way. Set aside a designated area in your home, such as a desk, a corner with a comfortable chair, or even a cozy bench outside, that would let your students feel a sense of ownership and create an effective studying space for your students. Allow your students to bring in their supplies and decorate the space in their favorite way. An environment like this will give them a sense of confidence and independence, making them excited to learn and a little more productive!

Encourage reading

Reading is an excellent way for students to stay engaged with the world around them while keeping their mind sharp. Reading also allows your students to explore new worlds and ideas. But it's essential to make the experience accessible, fun, and relatable. Start by finding books, or audiobooks, that match their interests or offer learning opportunities. Comic books, novels, picture books, and graphic novels can all be effective ways to encourage reading. Also, consider scheduling regular visits to your local library, which is often free, offering learning opportunities, and an ideal way to enjoy well-curated summer reading programs with other students.

Explore their interests

Encouraging your child to pursue their interests can help them stay motivated and engaged. If your child is interested in science, for example, provide them with access to science-related books, documentaries, or websites. Let them create their own experiments or projects.

Use educational technology

There are many educational apps and tools that can help students with learning differences improve their academic skills. Technology, such as audiobooks or text-to-speech software, can help students who struggle with reading. Math games and programs can help students with dyscalculia or other math difficulties. There are also apps for memory and organization that can help students with ADHD or executive functioning issues.

Try online learning platforms

Many online learning platforms offer engaging and comprehensive courses. They provide interactive material, assignments, and quizzes that allow students to learn at their own pace and conveniently from home. Depending on their interest, they could explore coding courses, engaging simulations, or even an animation program to develop their creativity while keeping their minds sharp. Online platforms such as Khan Academy offer free and subsidized access to a range of educational courses.

Encourage hands-on learning

When it comes to students with learning differences, they often benefit from hands-on, interactive learning experiences. Try to develop activities that are interactive and would give them insight, allowing them to explore and experiment – like science experiments, gardening, scavenger hunts, or practical
cooking lessons. These activities can help engage their minds, keep them learning, and develop skills that they can use for a lifetime.

Summer can be a challenge for students with learning differences, but it doesn't have to be. With the right tools and strategies, you can help your child or student stay academically engaged over the summer. Remember to make time for rest and relaxation as well. With your support, your child can
continue to make progress over the summer and come back to school in the fall ready to learn.