Preventing the Summer Slide and Fun Ways to Keep Students Learning All Summer

Stories & Spotlights

Summer is a time for students to relax, explore new interests and enjoy a well-earned break from the classroom. But without opportunities to keep their minds engaged, many students experience the “summer slide,” a decline in academic skills that can make the transition back to school more challenging.

According to the National Summer Learning Association, nearly 90% of educators report spending at least the first three weeks of the school year re-teaching material from the previous grade. On average, students can lose up to two months of learning over the summer, particularly in reading and math.

Although Insight Academy of Arizona’s (ISAZ) summer school session has ended, there are plenty of additional resources families can take advantage of this summer. Summer learning doesn’t have to be complicated; it is all about finding a balance between academic growth, enrichment and enjoyment.

“Summer should be a time for students to relax, explore their interests and make lasting memories, but that doesn’t mean learning has to stop,” said the Executive Director of ISAZ, Cedric Corbin.

Summer Learning Programs Through Your Schools

ISAZ students can access the K12 Zone, the K12 Skills Arcade and our STEAM camps to stay engaged all summer long.

In the K12 Zone, students can meet classmates virtually, play games like chess and tic-tac-toe, and even join one of our e-sports teams. The K12 Skills Arcade helps students build skills in math, reading, science and more. As they complete lessons, they earn coins to spend on a variety of “brain break” games.

Summer Reading Programs

Dozens of local libraries host summer reading challenges where students of all ages can read their way to prizes, snacks and event tickets.

Outside of local libraries, Project Gutenberg offers a database of more than 75,000 free eBooks for students of all ages. This is a great resource for independent reading or starting a book club within the family and neighborhood friends.

Summer reading helps boost critical thinking, improves focus and reduces learning loss, but it is at its most beneficial when students choose their own books that align with their interests and help them maintain or grow their reading level.

Summer Field Trips

Learning can also happen beyond the desk. Summer is a great time for families to explore their community, try something new and turn everyday adventures into learning opportunities.

Throughout Arizona, more than 200 local libraries partner with a nonprofit group, Act One, to provide library cardholders with the opportunity to check out free passes to museums and activities throughout the state. There are more than 50 participating locations in Central, Southern and Northern Arizona including popular destinations like the Phoenix Art Museum in Phoenix to the Lowell Observatory in Flagstaff and plenty in between.

Families can take advantage of these opportunities to explore new places, spark curiosity and create meaningful learning experiences without the added expense.

Establish a Simple Routine

One of the culprits of the summer slide is removing students from a dedicated routine. It doesn’t have to be strict, but setting aside times for certain activities can help students be more prepared when the school year resumes.

Dedicating just 20 to 30 minutes for reading, math or educational activities can make a significant difference. Creating a consistent routine helps children stay engaged without feeling like they’re back in school.

Summer should still be a season of rest, exploration and making memories. The goal isn’t to recreate the classroom but to weave learning naturally into everyday life.

Mr. Corbin added, “By making learning fun and intentional, families can help students return to school feeling confident and ready for the year ahead.”

By taking small, intentional steps throughout the summer, families can help prevent the summer slide and ensure their students start the new school year ready to learn, grow and succeed.

Visit ISAZ’s enrollment page to find more information on ISAZ summer enrichment opportunities and preparing for the 2026-2027 school year.