
Avoiding the Summer slide!
The “summer slide” is a loss of academic knowledge that happens to 5- to 12-year-olds during the summer vacation.
Teachers notice the phenomenon when school starts again in the fall, and it’s normal!
However, it is possible to prevent that loss of knowledge.
Regardless of the resources available, we can play a part!
Examples of activities to do during the summer
Maybe you already do these!
Here they are, separated in 4 categories of skills we want to work on during the summer:
Reading and writing
- Write postcards to friends
- Read a magazine or comic book borrowed from the library
- Find the letters of the alphabet on signs when taking a walk
Mathematics
- Estimate how much things will cost before going shopping
- Assemble a piece of furniture by following the instructions
- Play games with numbers (e.g., dice games)
Science
- Do scientific experiments
- Read a magazine or comic book about science
- Look at the stars and find constellations
Pssst! In August, find a peaceful place to watch the Perseids (a meteor shower)!
Self-esteem and social skills
- Prepare the meal for the family
- Volunteer
- Do creative activities: painting, music, drawing, dancing, etc.
For even more ideas of easy activities to do during the summer, take a look at our BINGO card.
Downloadable activities to keep you mind sharp this summer! (PDF)
*Available in French only for this year
Scientific experiments
First Nations
To have fun outside
Magic colouring (additions and subtractions)
Simple recipes
Riddles

Useful resources
Inspiration for the summer!
RAP Côte-Nord BINGO cards for simple everyday activities
Alloprof Parents | 5 tips to help your child avoid the summer slide
Alloprof Parents | 10 science activities to do at home
TD Summer Reading Club
Les Explorateurs 6-10 ans (jeux, quiz, BD, recettes, etc.) [French only]
Les Débrouillards 9-14 ans (expériences, quiz et tests, concours, etc.) [French only]
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