The COVID-19 pandemic has caused significant learning setbacks for elementary and junior high school students across the United States. According to the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP), math scores saw their largest decreases ever, and reading scores dropped to 1992 levels 1. The pandemic has caused historic learning setbacks for America’s children, erasing decades of academic progress and widening racial disparities 1.
To help students recover from the extensive academic disruptions caused by COVID-19, schools and parents can work together to help kids catch up. Here are some steps that parents can take to help their children:
- Encourage reading: Encourage children to read books that interest them. This can help improve their reading comprehension and vocabulary skills. Parents can also create a reading list and reward their children for completing each book 2.
- Math practice: Students can practice math skills by working on problem sets or playing math games. Local libraries often have books full of practice problems that students can use 2.
- Arts and crafts: Encourage students to think creatively and engage in arts and crafts activities. This can help stimulate their imagination and creativity 2.
- Outdoor activities: Encourage students to spend time outdoors and engage in physical activities. This can help improve their physical health and well-being, as well as provide opportunities for learning about nature and the environment 2.
- Volunteering: Students can volunteer at local organizations such as museums, animal shelters, and libraries. This can help them gain valuable experience and develop important skills 2.
By engaging in these activities, students can catch up on unfinished learning and return to school in the fall ready to learn and grow.