Why Summer Reading Makes a Difference for Middle Schoolers: Building Brains and Executive Skills
When school lets out for summer, it’s tempting for students to close the books and focus on fun.
But for 5th to 7th graders, summer is a critical time to keep reading—not just to prevent "summer slide," but to build skills that will set them up for success.
The Summer Slide Is Real
Research shows that students can lose up to two months of reading progress over the summer if they don’t stay engaged. This makes the transition to more challenging middle school texts even harder.
Reading regularly during the break helps students maintain—and even strengthen—their comprehension and vocabulary, making it easier to jump back into learning when school resumes.
Beyond Books: Building Executive Functioning Skills
Summer reading also builds executive functioning skills—the habits students need to manage time, organize information, and communicate effectively. Here’s how:
Note-Taking: Breaking down information by jotting notes improves retention and understanding.
Writing and Communicating: Summarizing or discussing readings helps students organize their thoughts and express themselves clearly.
Scheduling and Time Management: Setting aside regular reading time teaches students how to balance responsibilities and fun.
How Our Summer Reading Course Bridges the Gap
Our summer reading course for 5th–7th graders does more than keep students reading. It strengthens the higher-level skills they’ll need for middle and high school success:
A mix of fiction and non-fiction texts for deep reading and analysis
Active reading strategies like note-taking and partner reading
Skill-building exercises in writing, discussion, and time management
All materials provided in easy-to-access formats—no extra purchases needed
Even students who love to read for fun will benefit—academic reading requires different strategies than pleasure reading.
Our course ensures that students are challenged and supported, from reluctant readers to avid bookworms.
Set Your Student Up for Success
Summer reading isn’t just a way to pass the time—it’s an investment in your child’s future.
By building reading skills and executive functioning habits, students return to school confident, prepared, and ready to tackle whatever comes next.
Enroll today and help your 5th–7th grader make this summer a season of growth, discovery, and success!
