Summer Learning Plans: Why Parents Should Begin in May

As the school year winds down, many students begin dreaming of long summer days filled with rest, recreation, and time away from textbooks. While it’s important for kids and teens to recharge, a complete break from learning can lead to what’s known as the “summer slide” — a documented loss of academic skills over the break.

This is where early planning comes in. May is the ideal time for parents to begin crafting effective summer learning plans, giving students the opportunity to stay mentally active, retain core skills, and even get ahead for the next school year. Starting now gives you the advantage of time, structure, and flexibility.

summer learning plans

Let’s explore why May is the perfect month to jumpstart your child’s summer academic goals and how you can make a plan that balances fun, growth, and success.

 

 

The Summer Slide Is Real — and Reversible

Numerous studies have shown that students lose between one to three months’ worth of learning during the summer, especially in math and reading. This setback can accumulate over the years, resulting in academic struggles and decreased confidence.

 

Common Impacts of the Summer Slide:

  • Loss of reading fluency and comprehension
  • Decline in math computation and problem-solving skills
  • Struggle to re-engage when school resumes
  • Widening achievement gaps, particularly for students not engaged in summer enrichment

The good news? Summer learning loss is preventable — and even reversible — with a well-thought-out plan.

 

 

Why Start Summer Learning Plans in May?

Planning allows families to take a proactive and stress-free approach to academic enrichment. Here are the main reasons why May is the best time to begin:

 

1. Maximize Your Summer Schedule

May is when families start organizing vacations, camps, and other activities. Including tutoring or structured learning in those plans early ensures that:

  • Your child’s academic needs won’t be sidelined.
  • You can avoid scheduling conflicts later.
  • You’ll be able to reserve preferred tutors or program slots before they fill up.

 

2. Smooth Transition from School to Summer Learning

Students are still in school in May, which allows tutors to:

  • Assess current progress using schoolwork and report cards.
  • Identify specific areas of improvement.
  • Build a bridge between the current and future curriculum.

Early planning helps avoid the disjointed feeling students can experience when jumping into summer learning cold in July.

 

3. Customized, Goal-Oriented Programs Take Time to Build

Creating a summer program tailored to your child’s needs isn’t one-size-fits-all. Starting in May allows:

  • Tutors to design a targeted curriculum.
  • Time to identify the right tutor-student match.
  • Goal setting for enrichment, skill reinforcement, or test prep (e.g., SAT, ACT, or entrance exams).

 

4. Early Action Encourages Buy-In from Students

Involving your child in the planning process in May:

  • Builds excitement about the upcoming program.
  • Reduces resistance compared to mid-summer surprises.
  • Helps students feel empowered to set personal academic goals.

 

 

What Should Be Included in a Summer Learning Plan?

Every child is different, but an effective summer learning plan should balance academic growth with flexibility. Here are the key elements to consider:

 

1. Academic Skill Building

Target subjects where your child needs improvement or wants to advance. For most students, this includes:

  • Mathematics: Reinforce core skills or explore advanced topics.
  • Reading & Writing: Improve comprehension, vocabulary, grammar, or essay skills.
  • Science & Social Studies: Fill content gaps or explore interests.

 

2. Test Preparation

Summer is a great time to get ahead of standardized test prep without the stress of school assignments:

  • High school entrance exams
  • SAT or ACT prep
  • Provincial assessments or end-of-course exams

 

3. Study Skills & Executive Functioning

Teach your child how to:

  • Stay organized
  • Manage time effectively
  • Set goals and follow through. These skills benefit all students, especially those transitioning to middle school, high school, or university.

 

4. Enrichment Opportunities

Fuel your child’s curiosity by including:

  • Creative writing, coding, or robotics classes
  • Language immersion
  • Book clubs or project-based learning

 

5. Flexible, Enjoyable Learning Format

Keep sessions short and engaging. Use:

  • Online or in-person tutoring
  • Weekly goals with rewards
  • Hands-on learning or educational outings

 

 

How Tutors on Call Can Help

At Tutors on Call, we specialize in creating personalized summer learning programs for students from middle school to university. Whether your child needs a boost in a specific subject, wants to stay ahead of the curve, or needs help preparing for major exams, our experienced tutors are ready to help.

 

Our Programs Include:

  • One-on-one tutoring customized to each student
  • Flexible scheduling around vacations and camps
  • In-person or online lessons across Canada
  • Guidance from certified and experienced educators

 

When you reach out in May, our team has time to:

  • Review your child’s report cards or teacher feedback
  • Match your child with the right tutor
  • Plan a custom program that sets realistic and motivating goals

 

Sample Summer Learning Plan (Grades 7–12)

Week Focus Area Activity Goal
1–2 Math Review Review fractions, decimals, and algebra basics Solidify core skills
3–4 Reading & Writing Read a novel + write a weekly journal Enhance comprehension & writing
5–6 Science Enrichment Explore online science experiments Apply concepts through hands-on learning
7–8 Study Skills Learn note-taking, planning, and test strategies Build academic independence

Each plan is adjusted based on the student’s grade level, learning needs, and schedule.

 

 

Additional Tips for Parents

Here’s how parents can support their child’s summer academic success:

  1. Set a routine: Even just 2–3 hours per week can make a big difference.
  2. Be consistent: Regular check-ins with tutors or learning goals keep momentum going.
  3. Celebrate milestones: Reward your child’s efforts with praise or small incentives.
  4. Model learning: Read alongside your child or show curiosity in their interests.

 

 

Don’t Wait — Start Now

Planning your child’s summer learning program in May gives you a valuable head start. You’ll reduce stress, secure your preferred schedule and tutor, and give your child a chance to enter the next school year feeling confident and prepared.

Tutors on Call is here to help you design a program that fits your child’s needs — and your family’s summer schedule.

 

 

Ready to Start?

Contact Tutors on Call today to book a free consultation and learn how we can help your child reach their summer learning goals. Together, we can make this summer one of growth, confidence, and success.