A Letter from Learning and Literacy Specialist, Christina Dabulskis

Dear Harbor Families,

As we approach the end of the school year, I’ve taken time to reflect on the incredible growth we’ve seen in your children. Whether they were learning to identify sounds, read their first books, solve math problems, or express themselves more confidently, it has been a privilege to be part of their journey. Thank you for being such a dedicated, engaged, and welcoming community. It truly makes a difference.

While summer is a time for rest, play, and recharging, it’s also an important opportunity to keep foundational skills active. For children in PreK through 3rd grade, continued exposure to literacy and numeracy, especially in low-pressure, engaging ways helps prevent the “summer slide” and reinforces confidence as young learners prepare for the next academic year.

Below are some practical, developmentally appropriate ways you can support your child’s literacy and math skills over the summer. These strategies are designed to be easy to implement at home while still providing meaningful reinforcement of what your child has learned this year.

LITERACY SUPPORT

Why it matters:
Children at this age are developing phonological awareness, decoding skills, vocabulary, fluency, and comprehension. Regular practice even for just 10–15 minutes a day can make a big difference in maintaining growth.

What you can do:

• Visit the Library Weekly – Let your child choose books based on their interests to foster a love of reading. Most local libraries have summer programs with reading logs, activities, and incentives.
• Model Joyful Reading – Read aloud daily using expression and different voices. Encourage your child to read to a sibling, pet, or stuffed animal.
• Encourage Writing for Real Purposes – Invite your child to write postcards, shopping lists, or keep a summer journal. Even drawing and labeling pictures helps build literacy.
• Use Environmental Print – Look for words on signs, packages, menus, and labels. Play “I spy” games with letters, rhyming words, or sight words.
• Play Word Games – Try phonics-based games like Zingo, Boggle Jr., or Bananagrams. Rhyming games, word sorts, and storytelling dice are also great tools.

MATH PRACTICE

Why it matters:
Early math skills like counting, comparing quantities, recognizing patterns, and understanding number relationships build the foundation for more complex problem solving in later grades. Math confidence at this stage is key!

What you can do:

• Cook Together – Measuring ingredients supports skills in volume, sequencing, and fractions. Talk about “half,” “more,” or “less” as you go.
• Math in Motion – Count steps, track time, measure height with string, or estimate how many scoops of sand fill a bucket.
• Play Games with Numbers – Use games like Uno, Yahtzee, Chutes & Ladders, or Dominoes to practice counting, addition, and strategic thinking.
• Create a Math Box – Keep simple tools like dice, playing cards, coins, pattern blocks, and counters available for quick activities.
• Incorporate Story Problems – Ask your child math questions in everyday contexts: “If we have 3 popsicles and we give 1 away, how many do we have left?”

Above all, summer learning should feel fun, connected to real life, and full of choice. Children benefit most when they see learning as a part of their daily experiences, whether they’re writing a thank-you card, building with blocks, or comparing the sizes of seashells at the beach.

If you’re looking for more tailored ideas, book recommendations, or printable activities, please email me at christina_dabulskis@theharborschool.org,  I’m always happy to help. Wishing you and your family a summer full of stories, curiosity, creativity, and joy.

With appreciation,

Christina Dabulskis
Learning and Literacy Specialist