By David Cohen
Children can learn so much in the summer! This is great to remember when people speak about summer learning loss. The term refers to a common issue, where students finish the school year with certain knowledge and skills, which then become rusty or non-existent in the fall. I was recently speaking with a colleague who helped me to rethink this concept when considering early childhood education. She made two excellent points – so much learning can occur outside of school; and typical academic domains are not the only types of learning.
Early childhood has a bit of an advantage over our older school counterparts, as there are no standardized tests or curricula that are imposed, or even suggested, for children under five. Therefore, we can focus on individualizing approaches to challenge each child. We can strive to build a true love of learning, where children seek challenges. Children learn to read, write and use math because it is exciting; because it is useful in their lives. Consider a recent study in one of my school’s 4’s classes. The children were discussing their experiences with the theatre (some local children’s theatre and some major productions). Picking up on the children’s interests, the teachers helped the ideas to evolve into a theatre and a performance. Each day, the components grew – a ticket booth, a concessions stand, tickets, popcorn and, finally, a full script for a unique show. They used many skills designing the sets, writing the script, making signage, counting pretend money and rehearsing the show. On the big day, it was spectacular! I was very lucky to be invited, and got a great seat, albeit one that is 12 inches from the floor.
Can this type of learning happen only at school? Absolutely not. You need not have the extensive experience of these teachers. You just need to listen to children. Notice what interests them. The summer in this area allows for limitless outdoor fun. Take a hike. Visit a farmer’s market. Try fishing, geocaching, or collecting rocks or shells. See what sticks with your child.
“But what about the learning that is taking place?” you might ask. Should I find a way to shoehorn reading and math into our visit to a farmer’s market? Nope. Just enjoy the time with your child. They will be learning about local culture, cuisine, and agriculture. They will be interacting with new people and asking questions about what they see. Referring back to the 4’s fabulous show, those children learned far more than academics. They built confidence to speak in front of groups and guests. They operated booths and took responsibility to seat and welcome people. The excitement of this experience kept them running in to school each day, ready to try something new.
Ask your favorite Kindergarten teacher what this means for a child’s school success. Ask yourself what that means for your child’s happiness. Let’s take advantage of the area’s opportunities and see what gains can be made!
David Cohen is the Director of Schools at Temple Sholom. He holds a BS in Human Development and Family Relations, a MS in Early Childhood Education Administration, a MS in Jewish Instructional Education, and all but a dissertation toward a PhD in Leadership: Early Childhood and Elementary Education.
