How reading can help prevent the summer slide

Summer vacation gives your child a much-needed break from school routines, which is important. But, at the same time, it can also result in what educators call the summer slide or “brain drain” — a learning gap that opens when kids spend long periods away from the classroom.

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Not only can reading be a fun leisure activity, it can keep your child's skills sharp during summer break. Research shows that spending time with a favorite book builds brain pathways that are essential for language, social skills and emotional well-being.

Summer learning and various academic camps can help, but many kids don’t have access to these choices. Parents might also very reasonably worry about overscheduling their kids, which studies have linked with anxiety, forgetfulness, sleep troubles and more.

Here are a few ways you can encourage summer reading while keeping the focus on fun and discovery. Get kids their own public library card. Most library systems are happy to issue cards to kids under 18, including young children, with a parent or guardian's signature and proof of address. Having their own card makes visiting the library even more fun. At home, set up a “library table” or other designated spot for books to return. Pair books with travel. If your family is heading to another part of the country or world this summer, look for books that feature your destination. Kid-friendly travel guides and scavenger hunts can add fun to your trip. Fiction with characters from the places you will visit can literally bring locations to life.