How to prevent your child’s ‘summer slide’

Prioritizing summer learning doesn’t need to come at the expense of taking time to unwind and recharge. And it can achieve more than just preventing academic setbacks, by giving students the chance to explore new interests, strengthen skills, and stay socially engaged. With the right mix of learning and fun, students can enter the next school year feeling more confident, capable and excited.

At home, encouraging children to read books they enjoy, experiment with hands-on projects, or even document summer adventures in a journal are all ways to keep their minds active. Activities like cooking, gardening and exploring nature can make learning feel exciting and relevant to everyday life. Even small daily activities, like sports and playing outside, can make a big difference. 

Many families also look for more structured opportunities, including programs developed and led by education professionals. Summer programs, like those at Bayhill Literacy & Learning Center, offer a blend of academics, creativity and social connection. 

Programs that reinforce reading, writing and critical thinking help build a strong academic foundation, while creative and athletic activities foster problem-solving, teamwork and self-confidence.

Summer classes at Bayhill Literacy & Learning Center offer a blend of academics, creativity and social connection. Credit: Bayhill LLC

Some of this summer’s programming at Bayhill includes:

Boost Reading Comprehension with Visualizing & Verbalizing®

Reading isn’t just about words — it’s about creating mental images that bring stories and information to life. Our Visualizing and Verbalizing® program strengthens comprehension by helping students develop vivid mental imagery while they read, improving memory, vocabulary and critical thinking along the way.

Session 1: June 16-27, 9-9:50 a.m.
Session 2: June 30-July 11, 9-9:50 a.m.

Strengthen Writing Skills with The Writing Revolution®

Clear, confident writing is a skill that benefits students in every subject. Our Writing Revolution® courses teach structured, evidence-based strategies to help students organize their thoughts and communicate effectively.

Level 2: Paragraph Writing

Session 1: June 16-27, 10-10:50 a.m.
Session 2: June 30-July 11, 10-10:50 a.m.

Level 3: Essay Writing

Session 1: June 16-27, 10-10:50 a.m.
Session 2: June 30-July 11, 10-10:50 a.m.

Spark Creativity with 3D Printing & Screen Printing

Summer is the perfect time to bring ideas to life. Our 3D printing and design program introduces students to the exciting world of 3D modeling, allowing them to create and print their own unique designs. Our screen printing course offers a hands-on way to explore art and design by printing custom creations onto fabric or paper. These programs encourage creativity, problem-solving and hands-on learning.

3D Printing:
Session 1: June 30-July 11, 11:10 a.m.-12 p.m.

Screen Printing:
Session 1: June 16-27, 11:10 a.m.-12 p.m.
Session 2: June 30-July 11, 11:10 a.m.-12 p.m.

Stay Active with Basketball Skills & Drills Camp

Physical activity is just as important as academics. Our basketball skills and drills camp helps students improve their game with fundamental techniques like dribbling, shooting and defense — all while building teamwork and confidence.

Session 1: June 30-July 11, 9-9:50 a.m.

Bayhill Literacy & Learning Center offers a basketball class this summer that students might pair with reading or writing support classes. Credit: Bayhill LLC