How might we prevent the summer learning slide in first and second graders?
At Open Book Adventures Summer Camp 2017, 37 first and second grade “Buddies” were paired one-on-one with high school student “Adventure Guides.” During the three-day experience aimed at combating the loss of academic skills over the summer months, young campers developed a deeper love of learning, reading, and writing.
With the added challenge of adding more elements of movement and healthy living to OBA, the high school student planning team created a fun-filled schedule of reading and writing activities, arts and crafts, outdoor games and excursions, and creating meaningful connections with a near-peer.
The excited group of Adventure Guides and Buddies started their days with reading together in fun places around One Stone – on colorful beanbags, in camping tents, and beneath decorated canopies. Throughout the day, pairs participated in craft projects where they created toys that would take them outside, including jump ropes, hula hoops, and kites. Students traveled to local parks and attractions like Zoo Boise and Boise Urban Garden School where they practiced handwriting, played games, explored their surroundings, and wrote stories of real and imagined adventures.
At the end of camp, the hard work and creativity of the group was celebrated by playing in the splash pad at Comba Park. In the hot summer sun, Buddies and Guides were able to get out and move together – laughing, playing tag, and cementing the new bonds they had forged over the last three days.
Outcomes
In post-camp surveys, parents responded:
“This is the first camp my child has been thrilled to attend.”
“My son’s definitely walking away excited about books! Thank you!”
100% of parents said their child was excited to attend OBA camp.
100% enjoyed spending time with their high school Adventure Guide.
94% of parents said OBA helped prevent "summer learning slide” in their child.
