The undisputed research on “summer slide,” the concept of students forgetting what they have learned or students slipping out of practice during the summer months, has been available for years, but practical advice for parents on how to combat it has been slow in coming. So here’s what parents should know and what they can do.
By Alexandra Battle
Patricia Polacco was born in Lansing, Michigan, and lived a long time both there and in Oakland, California. Even now the most influential presences in her life have been that of her grandparents—and she pays tribute to that by including a strong bond between a child and an elderly person in each of her children’s books.
I had some trouble finding a book this month, and would never have found this wonderful one if not for my mom, to whom I’m extremely grateful. It has a great story and message, and the art’s not too bad either!
Mr. Lincoln is the best principal ever, without a doubt. No strictness and off-putting attitude from him—he interacts with all of his students, from kindergarten up to sixth grade. Everyone gets his time of day, and even his time after the day is done. The teachers like him; the parents really like him; and the kids adore him.
by Jennifer Barling
Everyone in the metroplex (OK, maybe everyone in the entire state of Texas) knows the big draws of Arlington: the Ballpark, Six Flags, and Cowboys Stadium. But unless you’ve got money to burn, those places can really put a hurt on your wallet. Given my thrifty nature, I’ve uncovered some great resources in Arlington for free (or cheap) kid-friendly entertainment and other summer activities. When you start planning your summer, don’t forget to include these. Maybe you’ll save enough money to take your family to a Texas Rangers game!
