But research and experience show that a lack of mental stimulation can result in unlearning , according to a statement released by the Boys and Girls Clubs of Hall County.
Also known as "summer learning loss" or the "summer slide", President Barrack Obama has noted, "Students are losing a lot of what they learn during the school year during the summer."
According to the Club's statement, this negative impact is amplified among low-income households.
"While the months without daily lessons are part of the problem, another contributing factor is that many young people are left alone for much of the summer, with little or no supervision to intellectually challenge them and constructive exercise their energies," according to Steve Mickens, Chief Professional Officer with the Hall County Boys and Girls Clubs.
To help combat this potential brain drain, the Clubs invite young people to participate in their summer learning programs.
Mickens added, "Many school districts have been forced to cut summer learning programs because of tight budgets, but there is much that parents can do, and partnerships between school districts and community-based organizations like Boys & Girls Clubs can provide excellent resources."
The Boys and Girls Clubs of Hall County is supported by more than 45 full-and-part-time staff, plus a volunteer force of over 100 community leaders and private citizens.
Joyce Wilson, Vice President of Development and Marketing for the Clubs said that the membership fee is $40 per year per child and the after-school program is free. The eight week summer program is $100 per child, but no child will be turned away due to inability to pay.
More information can be obtained by contacting the Clubs at (770) 532-8102.
http://accesswdun.com/article/2012/6/250005