Researchers Alexander and Olson1 studied the characteristics of parents whose children maintained the most skill over the summer months. They found nine key factors or actions that separated these parents from other parents in similar circumstances.
The first four characteristics are the most important and can be accomplished by every parent.
Family Characteristics
- Parents take children to the library and check out books while they are there
- Parents read to children for longer periods of time
- Parents check child’s homework
- Parents have higher expectations for child’s school conduct
- Children attended more kindergarten
- Parents report they are most responsible for how their child does in school
For more specific research on summer learning loss, click here
1 Alexander, K., Entwisle, D., and Olson, L. (2007). Lasting consequences of the summer learning gap. American Sociological Review, 72 (2), 167-180.
