Avoid the Summer Slide!

How to Avoid the Summer Slide for Struggling Readers

When summer break rolls around, it's a well-deserved chance for students to relax and recharge. But for struggling readers, months without structured reading can result in a significant loss of progress—commonly referred to as the "summer slide." Fortunately, with a thoughtful approach and a few creative strategies, parents and caregivers can ensure their children keep growing in literacy over the summer.

Establish a Daily Reading Routine

Reading, like any skill, improves with regular practice. Set aside at least 15 to 20 minutes a day for reading. This doesn’t always mean sitting down with a novel—magazines, comic books, menus, and even instruction manuals can all be engaging alternatives. The goal is to make reading a consistent and enjoyable part of your child’s day.

Let Your Child Take the Lead

Struggling readers often feel overwhelmed by books that are too challenging or uninteresting. Allow your child to choose their reading material based on their interests and reading level. Empowering them to select what they read increases motivation and makes the experience more enjoyable. Libraries and bookstores often have curated lists or displays for different age groups and reading levels.

Read Together—Out Loud

Reading aloud builds fluency, improves comprehension, and strengthens vocabulary. Take turns reading with your child, or simply read to them while they follow along. This shared activity not only supports literacy skills but also strengthens your connection through storytelling.

Use Audiobooks and Read-Alongs

Audiobooks and read-along versions of books are great tools to support struggling readers. Listening while following along in the text helps improve word recognition and fluency. Plus, audiobooks can be enjoyed in the car, at bedtime, or during quiet time.

Make Reading a Social Activity

Consider starting a small book club with your child and a few friends or family members. Discussing a story with others can deepen understanding and make reading more interactive. You can also connect online with other readers to share thoughts and favorite books.

Integrate Reading into Everyday Life

Help your child see that reading is useful and relevant. Encourage them to read street signs, grocery store ads, instructions for games, or recipes for meals. These everyday experiences reinforce literacy in a practical, low-pressure way.

Enroll in a Summer Learning Program

Sometimes, a little extra help can go a long way. A structured summer learning program, like The Catch-Up Center's Summer Success Program, offers personalized support tailored to each child’s needs. Programs like these provide consistent practice and strategies to help struggling readers make progress while enjoying their summer.

Final Thoughts

Avoiding the summer slide isn’t about rigid schedules or hours of study. It’s about finding balance—combining fun, flexibility, and meaningful learning moments throughout the summer. With your support and a few consistent habits, your struggling reader can return to school in the fall with increased confidence and stronger skills. Every page read this summer brings them one step closer to success!

Support your struggling reader, reach out to The Catch-Up Center for expert support.