What is the best way for the elementary student to stay on top of math during the summer?

Question

How can parents keep their students from 'backsliding' during summer months?

Answer 1

Greetings! This is an excellent question. Like reading and writing, students of all ages and academic abilities need to maintain and continually develop their math skills during the summer months in order to not only be properly prepared for their next grade level, but also keep their momentum from the previous school year going strong.

In addition to the very helpful information and examples provided by tutor Courtney W., I would also suggest that your child practice everyday math reflecting the material they just finished learning at the end of (and all throughout for that matter) their previous grade level—in the form of sample math exercises along the lines of: algebraic equations, word problems, mini-projects revolving around the underlying learned math content, and also reflecting the ongoing Common Core Math instituted into the math curricula nationwide.

To do this: you can look up helpful sample math exercises and demonstrations provided by educators online at YouTube, in math workbooks covering corresponding content (purchasable online at Amazon and through more direct educational websites), and, right here at WyzAnt through the very valuable tutoring services provided by the academic working professionals all around you online! This includes sample math exercises and ensuing examples provided under the Toolkit and Resources drop down links under the menu at the top of your screen right here at WyzAnt!

Above all, have your child review his/her math notes from class this past year over the course of the summer. No doubt the information and example exercises provided in those notes in your child's own handwriting will look familiar to your child. :)

Good luck with helping your children maintain their mathematical momentum, and feel free to reach out to me if you seek tutoring support in the process!

Answer 2

I also recommend Khan Academy for review during summers. There are multiple math sub topics covered, from Kindergarten through Advanced Calculus. This program is online, and there is also a mobile app. Note that Khan Academy has been expanding its offerings beyond math, and the grammar course is quite good. Khan also offers test prep. Struggling younger students may require supervision during the use of Khan Academy because it requires motivation. If a student is not self-motivated, they will need help. It is a valuable program that is becoming very popular with teachers, who have the ability to use it with an entire class!

Take a look!

Answer 3

The first step to ensure success during the summer is setting a schedule. Set aside a block of time such as an hour each weekday for math practice. Try to make this the same time each day. During my sessions teaching elementary level students, I would create homemade board games and research fun games that incorporates math but in a fun way! These board games and assorted colorful cut outs I've created were a huge success with my students! Also, there are online practice sites that are exciting and will engage students that cannot get enough screen time. Hiring a tutor for summer sessions is also a great idea. I have found during my tutoring career that students are more inclined to participate when receiving instruction from a person other than their parents. I hope this helps! The best of luck with your student! I am available to answer any questions you may have or to schedule an online lesson. Have a great summer!

Answer 4

I like the Scholastic Learn At Home program which has reading materials, videos and exercises for students to do at home. There is also Pinterest which has an entire section on Home Schooling.

My very favorite of course is Kahn Academy. This is free and on Youtube and your student can take virtually any math subject that they are having trouble with and review on one of the videos. The speaker has a great voice and speaks slowly and clearly. He puts up several examples for each problem. If you didn't understand before you started, you will understand it by the time you are done! More later. Courtney Webb, MA