Learning Loss to Learning Opportunities
Supporting learning beyond the school year by preventing learning loss through engaging and inclusive summer experiences
What is Learning Loss?
The term learning loss refers to any specific or general loss of knowledge and skills or to reversals in academic progress, most commonly due to extended gaps or interruptions in a student’s education. While learning loss can manifest in a wide variety of reasons, the following are a few representative examples of widely recognized forms of learning loss, including but not limited to summer break, school absence, and interrupted formal education.
Addressing Learning Loss During the Summer
The ED&D team focuses on the prevention and intervention for the continuum of school-aged students who experience learning disabilities and/or learning loss. As we approach a scheduled break in instructional services, ED&D wants to share resources available at no cost to students and families. The resources outlined below include fun and engaging activities to support student learning throughout the summer break.
LEGO Free Play
The LEGO Creators Club invites all "master builders" to take on a LEGO challenge each session, or build something unique, working together or solo. For children and families ages 4 - 14 years. Join the fun at the San Ysidro Library located in South San Diego every other Wednesday of each month at 4 p.m. Please refer to the website for specific details and join the fun!
Covert, Ralph. Ralph's World Promotional Portrait. 2019.
Ralph’s World Live
Ralph’s World live concerts will be provided throughout San Diego County libraries this summer.
Step into the mega-fun musical planet of Ralph’s World, created by Grammy-nominated indie-rocker Ralph Covert. In these special solo acoustic library performances, Ralph bridges the gap between music and literacy through a high-energy set of "activity songs" and "story-songs." Designed for toddlers through elementary-aged children, the show encourages active participation, movement, and a love for storytelling. Whether he’s singing about "Drivin' in My Car" or "Honey for the Bears," Ralph’s "chocolate rainbow" of sound transforms the library into a vibrant community dance party that parents love as much as the kids. Detailed information is provided on the website. All events are free!
Noteworthy Puppets
Noteworthy Puppets provides live and virtual puppet shows throughout San Diego County libraries. Please refer to the website for specific, detailed information. San Diego shows will be provided on the following dates: June 10 & 25; July 9, & 14-18.
River Readers Nature Storytime
Located at Grant Park in Mission Valley, the River Readers Nature Storytime will feature books, activities, and crafts celebrating the great outdoors and our local wildlife. This partnership between the San Diego River Park Foundation and the Mission Valley Library is perfect for preschoolers and their families looking for outdoor literacy fun! Storytime will be held weekly on Tuesdays. Please refer to the website for specific information.
Super Mario Wheelchair Awareness Course at the All Inclusive Day of Play. Special Needs Resource Foundation of San Diego, 2025
All Inclusive Day of Play & Resource Fair 2026
Join us for a fun and welcoming All Inclusive Day of Play & Resource Fair on Friday, July 17, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Miramar Hourglass Recreation Center, 10440 Black Mountain Road, San Diego, 92126. This free community event is an amazing day for families to play, connect, and explore helpful resources together. All kids are invited to enjoy a day of play, discovery, and family fun, brought to you by the Special Needs Resource Foundation. Please refer to the website for specific information.
Movies in the Park 2025 Promotional Flyer. San Diego Parks Foundation, 2025
San Diego Parks Foundation Movies in the Park & Teen Nites
In conjunction with the City of San Diego Parks & Recreation department, we are hosting family-friendly movies in the park. Join us for movies in the park, coming to a recreation center or park near you! Also, join us at one of the ten recreation centers hosting Teen Nite for a fun night full of free activities, food, entertainment, sports, crafts, music, video games, inflatables, and so much more! Connect with other San Diegan teens ages 12-17 every Friday night from 5:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.! Please refer to the websites for specific information.
Working Together to Continue the Learning Process
As a parent or educator, we always want what is best for our children and students. The ED&D team hopes that the included information will assist parents and educators with a variety of engaging activities focused on continuing student learning during the summer months as a means of reducing learning loss. We encourage parents to connect with their students' teachers for additional learning resources and guidance for other learning activities. Best wishes for a safe and productive summer.