Children Returning to School 4 to 5 Months Behind Due to Pandemic says New Research

MINNEAPOLIS – A new study shows American kids are returning to school an average of four to five months behind in their learning, and it’s worse for low-income students and students of color.

A nonprofit is among those trying to help students across the country catch up.

Cathryn Miller, deputy director of West Virginia programs for Save the Children, said it is important for parents and caregivers to understand their children have real concerns and worries, and adults should not pretend everything is going back to normal.

“As parents and caregivers, we shouldn’t gloss over their concerns,” Miller advised. “But instead, we should validate them and reassure them that caring adults are working to keep them safe and cared for.”

Miller argued it is vital to make sure kids get the recommended amount of sleep every night, establish routines for doing their homework and reading at least 20 minutes a day. She added reading helps kids build their vocabularies and their imaginations.

Shane Garver, associate vice president for rural education programs at Save the Children, said extra support will be important for those who missed out on parts of their education last year.

“Things like after-school programs, additional tutoring programs and learning opportunities in the community are going to be critically important to supporting kids,” Garver contended.

Meanwhile, the group said during COVID lockdowns, they saw many students lacked the tools at home for proper learning.

For instance, some lived with grandparents who may not have the knowledge of, or access to, technology.

Pediatricians emphasized another tip is to prepare your child to be flexible in the event COVID variants cause more learning disruptions this fall.