The Benefits of Tutoring Over the Summer Break

As educators, we know how much progress students make during the school year—and how quickly that progress can slip away during the summer break. Research shows that students can forget up to two months of math and reading skills over the summer if they’re not actively learning. This academic backslide, commonly referred to as the summer slide, is something we see every fall—and it’s especially impactful for students who are already struggling.

The good news is that as teachers, we have a powerful opportunity to help families turn the summer months into a season of growth. One of the most effective ways? Encouraging tutoring in the summer.

What Is the Summer Slide?

Educators know that the summer slide refers to the loss of academic skills and knowledge over the extended break. It often shows up in the first few weeks of the new school year, when we’re reteaching core concepts that students previously mastered.

This regression tends to be most noticeable in subjects like reading comprehension and math fluency—skills that build year over year. Left unaddressed, the learning loss can widen achievement gaps and make it harder for students to regain momentum.

How Teachers Can Help Families Understand the Importance of Summer Learning

Families often don’t realize how much academic ground can be lost in just a couple of months. Here are a few ways you can help:

• Share research: Send home simple, visual infographics or links that highlight summer learning loss statistics.
• Encourage planning: Talk with families during end-of-year conferences about creating a summer learning plan that keeps academic skills fresh.
• Promote structure: Suggest small, daily routines—like 20 minutes of reading or math review—that make a big impact over time.

Recommend Summer Tutoring as a Powerful Solution

Not all families have the time or resources to create and manage their own summer curriculum. That’s where summer tutoring can make a huge difference.

Let parents know that tutoring offers:

• Personalized instruction that targets their child’s specific needs
• Flexible schedules that work around vacations and summer camps
• Support from certified teachers who use proven methods
• Confidence-building experiences that set students up for fall success

Students who participate in tutoring over the summer don’t just maintain their skills—they often return to school ahead of where they left off.

Partnering with Huntington Learning Center

If you’re looking for a local trusted recommendation to share with families, Huntington Learning Center offers targeted summer learning programs that help students thrive. With both in-person and online options, their certified tutors tailor each program to meet the unique needs of every learner.

Programs are available in:

• Reading, writing, and math
• Study skills and organizational habits
• SAT/ACT and other test prep
• ADHD and learning differences support

You can direct families to HuntingtonHelps.com or encourage them to call 1-800 CAN LEARN to learn more.

Help Your Students Start the Next School Year Strong

The end of the school year is the perfect time to start conversations about summer learning. By helping families understand the impact of the summer slide and the benefits of tutoring in the summer, we can empower parents to take proactive steps that support long-term academic growth.

Let’s work together to give our students the advantage they deserve this summer.

Huntington Learning Center offers summer tutoring programs that help students continue to make progress with learning over the break. Contact us to learn more.