In 1996, in a synthesis of 39 separate studies, researchers found that the average student, returning to school in September has lost the equivalent of 1.0 to 2.6 months of previous learning—in effect, erasing this amount of learning from their mind. According to the report, the biggest losses occur in the areas of spelling and computational math (multiplication, addition, etc.).   The good news for both parents and students is [by having a summer learning plan and acting on it] that this “academic atrophy” can be reduced and even eliminated. -    Rob Stringer, Educational and Parenting Consultant, July 15, 2005 Many parents are unaware of the effect summer break may have on their childs learning achievement.  The "summer slide" describes what happens when young minds sit idle for three months. Experts agree that children who read during the summer gain reading skills, while those who do not often Read More