One Powerful Habit: Creating a “Preview Week” Before School Starts
Summer break is a much-needed time for students and parents to unwind, recharge, and create memories beyond the boundaries of schoolwork. Yet, as September looms closer, a common challenge slips into focus: helping kids transition smoothly back to the academic routine. Instead of waiting for those first week jitters, let’s talk about a proactive habit that can make all the difference—the “Preview Week.”
What is a Preview Week?
Think of “Preview Week” as a gentle runway back to learning. It’s a designated stretch of 5–7 days before school officially begins where families set aside a little time each day to review key concepts and peek at upcoming skills. The goal here isn’t to cram or overwhelm, but to rebuild confidence and curiosity, making that first day feel less like a leap and more like a step forward.
Why Does It Work?
During summer, it’s natural for students to experience “learning loss”; the slow fading of academic skills simply because they’re not in daily use (known among educators as the “summer slump”). According to research, children can lose up to two months of progress in reading and math over the break. The Preview Week habit gently counteracts that by refreshing skills, jumpstarting routines, and leaving kids feeling capable rather than rusty.
A Step-by-Step Guide for Parents
Set Realistic, Fun Goals: Preview Week isn’t about sitting at a desk all morning. A daily 20–30 minutes is plenty. Choose 1–2 focus areas like math facts, reading comprehension, or writing.
Mix in Movement and Play: Try math games with sidewalk chalk, recreate a favorite science experiment, or take a family trip to the library. If a topic feels fresh and interesting, students invest more of themselves in learning.
Preview, Don’t Pressure: If you have access to information about next year’s curriculum (many schools share reading lists or supply suggestions), explore one new concept together. For example, “this year you’ll learn about fractions; let’s bake cookies and divide them up!” If not, revisiting last year’s topics works just as well.
Build in Reflection: End the week with a conversation. What did your child enjoy or surprise themselves with? What are they feeling good about for the coming year? This turns Preview Week into a source of pride and anticipation.
How Tutoring Can Help
Some families like to partner with a tutor for Preview Week, especially if their child struggled last year or is making a big leap (like heading to middle or high school). At TutorMe, our expert tutors tailor “just-right” sessions—sometimes focusing on skill review, other times introducing upcoming ideas to spark confidence on day one. Whatever your child’s needs, we work within your summer schedule to keep learning light and stress-free.
A Confident Takeoff
When kids are gently reintroduced to learning routines, they start the year not just ready, but energized. Preview Week doesn’t erase the fun of summer—it extends it, turning those last days into an opportunity to build excitement and a strong sense of possibility. After all, every school year is a new adventure, and with a little preview, your child can step forward with confidence, curiosity, and the calm assurance that they’re ready for what comes next.
