How to Prevent Summer Learning Loss in Young Kids—Without Worksheets

While summer learning loss (also known as the ‘summer slide’) is something many parents may worry about, the good news is that learning doesn’t just happen in the classroom. There is a whole bunch of learning that can happen in the summer, in addition to having fun and lots of free time. Here’s how to keep kids learning this summer through play, exploration, and everyday activities:

1. Turn Daily Routines into Learning Moments

• Count items during snack time (“How many crackers do you have?”)
• Read signs during walks or errands

➡️ These tasks support math, categorization, and language development.

2. Let Them Lead a Project

Ask your child to choose a recipe and then make it together or plan a tea party from start to finish (who to invite, writing out invitations, choosing what snack to serve, going grocery shopping, setting up the party area, choosing decorations and decorating, etc). 
➡️ Builds executive function, literacy, and confidence.

3. Let the Boredom Set In

It is not your job to be constantly entertaining or setting up activities for your child. Allowing them to experience boredom can build resilience and creativity.

Picture this - instead of setting them up with a specific activity like a coloring page, you let your child wander around a bit until they may just start to play teacher/school with their toys or rebuild one of their lego creations into something entirely new.
➡️ Supports resilience and creativity.

4. Play Games That Involve Strategy or Memory

Card games like Go Fish, matching games, or Simon Says promote cognitive development.
➡️ Encourages focus, memory, and decision-making.

5. Use Open-Ended Toys and Role Play

Pretend play with animals, dolls, or puppets helps kids work through emotions and practice problem-solving.
➡️ Fosters creativity and social-emotional growth.

6. Keep Writing and Drawing Materials Accessible

From “writing” menus to drawing birthday cards, creative expression keeps fine motor skills sharp.
➡️ Prepares kids for handwriting and school tasks.

7. Encourage Outdoor STEM Exploration

Collect bugs, grow a plant, or watch birds at the park.

➡️ Builds curiosity and early science skills.

You Don’t Need a Formal Curriculum
Kids learn best through real-life, hands-on experiences. These small moments add up—and help ease the transition back to school in the fall.

At Carabie, we believe play is powerful. Our storybooks and plushies are designed to teach kids about health, empathy, and emotions in ways that feel safe and comforting.