Avoid Holiday Break Academic Regression

‘Tis the season to relax a little, right? At least that’s how most students are feeling (especially the older ones)! And as important as rest and recovery is, we don’t want to slip into regression.

What is academic regression?

Have you ever gone back to the gym after taking a couple of weeks off? Can you picture how your muscles ache and how you seemingly can’t achieve the same workouts with the same ease as you had before?

Academic regression works similarly. It is a term used by educators to describe when children have a setback, or “regress”, in a skill they have previously mastered or achieved. A little bit of slippage is normal! However, holiday breaks are a high-risk type for regression because students aren’t maintaining their reading, writing, calculation, etc. skills. This could put them at a disadvantage heading into the new semester.

Luckily, there are a few easy ways to keep your students’ minds active while still letting them enjoy their break.

• Ask them to help you calculate the tip if you go out to dinner

• Read with them or encourage them to read

• Limit TV and screen time

• Play board or card games that require counting or strategy

• Ask them to write holiday cards or notes to friends and/or family

• Balance holiday meals with healthy, fresh meals (for healthy brain growth)

• Keep a good sleep routine (at least try!)

We all enjoy — and deserve — a break! But remember, learning doesn’t need to be stressful or exhausting. Try out some of these tips and your student will be sure to benefit!

Thank you to…

www. soniclearning.com.au/prevent-learning-regression-these-school-holidays/#:~:text=Exercise%20is%20important%20for%20physical,time%20will%20likely%20cause%20regression.