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The summer break is a glorious opportunity for students to wind down and relax a bit following a strenuous year of learning. Many studies have shown that the break between the spring and fall semesters can have a negative effect on students’ retention of subject matter and learning. This break allows for not only summer play but also a complete lack of learning and mental stimulation for many. Therefore it is imperative that students of all ages engage in summer studying and in-home or online tutoring.

Better Retention of Previous Subject Matter

According to an article published by the Sylvan Learning Center in 2009 students begin to lose their retention of learned material within 24-48 hours without the introduction of new information or studying. After one month of learning downtime they can lose as much as 80% of what they’ve learned. Imagine the amount of information lost across the various subjects after a couple of months of complete lack of learning stimuli! Whether the student is in G-12 or G-16 summer studying or online tutoring will help curb this drastic loss of information.

Preparing for the Next Year

According to the Johns Hopkins School of Education children lose 2 months of math skills over the summer and most low income students lose reading skills as well. Summer reading and learning programs not only provide a wholesome activity to keep them busy, they also help aid students in keeping their minds engaged and accustomed to learning. The continuous flow of information helps keep them sharp and makes the adjustment to school life during the normal terms somewhat less of a shock to the system.

Summer studying at any age is about more than just filling your abundant summer free time. For many the information lost over the summer is never regained if not reviewed in the following year. Through summer studying and in home tutoring students can expect to see better information retention as well as experiencing an easier transition into school life in the fall.

Sources:http://www.desmoinesregister.com/article/20090616/NEWS02/906160377/Summer-studying-vital-kids-maintain-skills, http://www.weau.com/education/headlines/50766452.html