Scientific studies on summer learning loss indicate that summertime is a crucial period for youth development and education. The substantial set of evidence supporting the existence of summer learning loss has led researchers to emphasize the importance of utilizing the summer months to enhance learning and development among young people (Georgia, Kristen & Julie, 2017). Summer learning programs have the potential to help children and youth improve their skills. However, despite their benefits, these programs are often neglected by decision-makers or absent altogether, especially in contexts where funding is limited. Studies show that there is a gain in summer programs. Students who participate in summer programs are more likely to have high levels of social competence among both peers and adults and fewer behavioural problems. The most effective summer programs involve complementary academic content, individual support, and hands-on activities. In addition to the benefits and gains above, summer programs that combine a youth development framework with academic enrichment also demonstrate potential for reversing summer learning loss and increasing educational equity.
In this aspect, the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine; Division of Behavioral and Social Sciences and Education; Board on Children, Youth, and Families; Committee on Summertime Experiences and Child and Adolescent Education, Health, and Safety; Hutton R, Sepúlveda MJ, editors. Washington (DC): National Academies Press (US); (2019 Sep 26) offers numerous benefits for summer programs. Here are some of the key benefits:
1. Physical and Mental Health: Summer programs can be designed to improve the physical health and well-being of children. One study found that overweight children and youth in a physical health summer program who attended for at least (29) days had short-term weight loss, improved blood pressure, and increased aerobic fitness. Mental Health: Indeed, summer is a time when children and youth with mental health needs can participate in targeted programs that support them. 2. Voluntary Academic Programs: Some schools, districts, universities, and community partners offer voluntary academic summer programming to children and youth with the intent of improving students' success in school, most often in reading and mathematics. These programs usually target students performing below grade level. The content and structure of studied programs vary from one another in the following ways: By grade level: Some programs targeted certain grade levels (e.g., early elementary, middle grades), while others span multiple grade levels (e.g., grades 1–7). By duration: Some programs were offered as half-day sessions, whereas others ran from 3 to 6 weeks over the summer. By content: Some programs focused on one academic subject, others span multiple subjects, and many included non-academic enrichment activities (e.g., arts or sports). By curriculum: Programs tended to have a set curriculum; however, each program offered a different curriculum, and some studies did not describe the curriculum that was used. 3. Social and Emotional Development: Summer is a great time for all children to advance their social and emotional skills. Studies found moderate evidence that programs designed to meet the specialized needs of specific groups of children and youth produced social and emotional benefits. For instance, the study found moderate evidence from a 3-week Canadian therapeutic summer program for children and youth with learning disabilities coupled with social, emotional, or behavioural issues, namely that the program reduced social isolation and improved self-esteem into the next school year.
In sum, studies demonstrate that summer programming designed to meet specific student needs and linked to desired outcomes can measurably benefit across multiple domains. Sustained attendance is crucial, with significant academic gains for students attending at least (20) days, and greater benefits accruing with participation over multiple summers.
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