This school year felt like it lasted FOREVER. Many schools remained in session for up to two weeks longer than usual, so students and parents were both DONE by the time the last day of school finally arrived.
As tempting as it may be to toss all thoughts of summer learning aside, it is important to recognize that although this school year was long, it wasn’t necessarily time well spent. Amid all the virtual, hybrid and masked learning, your child may have missed out on some critical learning time. Although summer is a great time to relax and recharge, it is also a great time to fill in any learning gaps, minimize learning loss, and ensure your child is set up for success the next school year.
If you have an incoming 3rd or 4th grader, here are 3 simple ways to keep them learning this summer, while still ensuring there is plenty of time for rest and the pool.
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1. Read Daily
There is nothing better for your child academically than simply reading regularly. This can include reading aloud to your child, reading independently, reading aloud to a younger sibling, or using a reading comprehension workbook. Whatever method your child prefers, just keep them reading.
If you are looking for a good book series for your 3rd or 4th grader, some popular series are listed below:
2. Review Math Skills
No one wants to spend their summer figuring out complicated curriculum. Select a simple math workbook and have your child complete 1 – 2 pages a day. Some of these workbooks will literally take just a few minutes to complete a page. In order for your child to be able to complete most of the work independently, select the workbook for the grade your child just completed so your child will be reviewing concepts instead of being introduced to new ones.
Some of my favorite math workbooks are listed below. Each workbook is available in specific grade levels, so you can select the right level for your child.
3. Memorize Multiplication Facts
Memorizing multiplication facts is a big part of the math curriculum in the 3rd grade. Children who just completed the 3rd grade and haven’t mastered the multiplication facts yet, are going to struggle with 4th grade math. Multiplication facts need to be recalled quickly for higher level math. If your child is entering the 3rd grade, you can give them a big advantage by having them memorize the multiplication facts over the summer.
Studying multiplication flashcards does not feel like summer fun, but Times Tales makes it fast, easy and fun to memorize the times tables in just a few hours. You can try a free sample below.
Final Thoughts
Summer should be fun and offer a break from the school routine. By incorporating these simple practices, your 3rd or 4th grader will keep learning without sacrificing summer fun.
Disclosure: Teaching With A Twist is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com.
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