As the days grow longer and the heat intensifies, we long for the dog days of summer to lie around and relax. It is nostalgic to remember the long days of playing summer games in the yard with friends and family, but it is also important to remember that playing is an important part of cognition. Too often, we spend our summer playing video games and watching television especially now as it heats up outside. This can lead to a phenomenon known as the summer brain drain.
Summer brain drain, also known as the “summer slide” or “summer learning loss,” refers to a decline in academic skills that students experience during the summer break. This phenomenon is most pronounced in math and reading with research studies showing that students can lose a significant amount of ground which on average is equivalent to up to 3 months of school year learning. The lack of structured learning and practice during the summer break can lead to a decline in skills, especially in areas that require repetition to grow and retain.
Here are a few tips to stop the slide:
- Engage in summer learning programs. Summer programs can provide structured learning opportunities and help prevent skill loss. These can be local camps, vacation bible schools, sports, and academic activities, or even just competitions such as reading bingo challenges provided by local community partners and LearningRx.
- Make learning fun. Incorporate learning into everyday activities and outings, such as visiting museums or going on educational trips. We have quite a few science and math facilities locally such as Sci-Port and museums that have art, science, and nature.
- Use technology. Utilize educational apps and online resources to supplement learning. Remember that too much technology and blue light does not benefit the brain so choose this wisely.
- Focus on hands-on learning. Encourage activities that involve problem-solving and critical thinking. Outdoor scavenger hunts can be a fantastic way to boost these skills.
- Exercise the body and the brain. Being deliberate about getting proper exercise, nutrition, and hydration is essential especially important for the thinking skills in summer heat. A dehydrated brain cannot function properly and can lead to permanent memory loss. Remember while exercising, both mentally and physically, that hydration is necessary.
While often associated with children and students, it is important to realize “summer brain drain” can also apply to adults. In adults, the brain drain refers to a potential decline in cognitive skills and knowledge retention. This decrease in mental activity can occur during periods of reduced work or leisure engagement like summer vacation. To combat the decline, adults can engage in stimulating activities like pursuing hobbies, reading challenging books, and volunteering their time.
Reduced intellectual stimulation is the primary cause of brain drain, and the heat in our area causes many people to just stay indoors rather than socializing. Summer vacations and periods of reduced work can lead to less exposure to challenging tasks and learning opportunities. This can cause changes in routine. Altered schedules and routines can disrupt cognitive processes and make it harder to maintain focus and engagement.
Additionally, due to heat, we increase our screen time and rely excessively on passive activities. Activities like social media or video games can lead to a decline in active thinking and engagement. Much like children, this can be combatted by a few things.
Tips for Adults:
- Engage in stimulating activities. You can pursue a hobby, learn a new skill, take a class, or engage in creative projects.
- Read challenging books. Just like exercise for the body, reading can keep the mind sharp and engaged.
- Volunteer your time. Participating in volunteer work can provide opportunities for learning and engagement.
- Set aside time for learning. Dedicate specific periods for reading, studying, or engaging in educational activities.
- Limit screen time. Reduce passive activities and focus on engaging in activities that require active thinking and problem-solving.
- Stay physically active. Exercise improves cognitive function and helps maintain mental sharpness. Mental exercise is equally beneficial and should be pursued diligently also.
- Hydrate well and often. The brain uses 80% of our daily hydration. When there is a lack of hydration, the cognitive skills suffer leading to short term memory losses that can become permanent. All water is not created equally. So, remember that mineral enhanced waters such as hydrogen water or those rich in natural minerals can be good for your brain. Research suggests that using electrolytes during the heat of summer can be especially important as age progression happens.
There are so many activities going on in the summer time in the Shreveport-Bossier area that everyone should be able to avoid brain drain. You can find Things to Do and a variety of Fun Events for the whole family to enjoy in our area. If you are looking specifically for the kids, check out Macaroni Kid.
If you are looking for more structured learning to prepare your child or yourself for the upcoming school year or some other learning adventure, contact LearningRx Shreveport Bossier by calling 318.797.8523 or emailing shreveport.la@learningrx.net. You can also learn more on our main website at Get Started.
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