Fighting the Summer Slide: Tips for Louisiana Families

Summer is a well-earned break for students, but without regular learning, many experience the “summer slide,” a decline in academic skills over the break. The good news? With a few simple strategies, you can help your child keep learning all summer long and start the new school year strong.

At Canopy Tutoring, we’re committed to supporting Louisiana families with tools to stay on track—even when school’s out.

🛝 What is the Summer Slide?

The summer slide refers to the learning loss that can happen when students are out of the classroom for an extended time. Research shows that students can lose 2–3 months of academic progress, particularly in reading and math. Over time, these gaps can widen, making it harder to catch up in the fall.

🏃 How You Can Keep Learning Going

Here are a few ways to make learning part of your summer—without sacrificing fun:

• Create a Reading Routine
  Encourage 20 minutes of reading a day. Let your child choose books they enjoy—comic books, chapter books, magazines—anything that keeps them engaged. Check out your local library’s summer reading program or access free books through Louisiana’s Literacy Library.
  
  

• Practice Math in Real Life
  Keep math skills fresh through everyday activities like cooking, measuring, budgeting, or playing math games. 

• Grocery Store Math: estimate costs, compare prices, calculate discounts, or stick to a budget during your shopping trip.

• Cook Together: Have your child read recipes, measure ingredients, or even calculate how to double or halve recipes.

• Road Trip Math Games: When speed limits change, ask your child to find the difference

• Keeping the Learning Going at Home

• Did you know the LDOE partners with Zearn to provide school licenses to all public schools for K-8th students? You may be able to get a free login from your school. Reach out to your child's teacher or Louisiana's Family Math Resources to learn more.

• The LDOE has teamed up with Khan Academy to create easy-to-use review lessons that match what your child is learning at school and on Zearn.

• Louisiana parents can use Amplify's Caregiver Hub to access helpful resources, guides, and student tools for the CKLA language arts program for PreK–5.

*Pro tip: Students can also use a free Zearn account if they don’t have access through their school to do 10 questions per day in any content area

• Keep a Consistent Schedule
  A little structure goes a long way. Setting aside a short daily “learning time” helps kids stay in a routine and reduces the back-to-school adjustment in August. Even 20-30 minutes daily helps keep kids sharp over the long break.

• Explore Learning Through Play and Travel
  Museum visits, nature walks, and family road trips offer great opportunities for learning and reflection. Ask open-ended questions, encourage journaling, and make space for curiosity.

ℹ️ Want Extra Support?

Canopy Tutoring offers personalized summer tutoring to help students retain knowledge, build confidence, and even get ahead. Our experienced tutors understand Louisiana’s curriculum and provide engaging lessons tailored to your child’s needs. Want to stay updated on private pay tutoring options? Sign up for our email list to stay updated on our offerings, promotions, and tips for supporting your child’s learning!

Let’s make this summer one of growth, curiosity, and confidence. Whether it’s ten minutes of reading, a math game after dinner, or a tutoring session, every little bit adds up!