Kids are behind. HOW can we help?

Hey parents and teachers, what’s up?

Today we’re going to look at an important issue with your children—or the kids you work with—and that is learning loss. Has learning been lost? The answer is yes.

I’m going to share a very interesting article and talk through this briefly, because it’s really important that we address this issue. I’ll review the problem, show you the article, and then give you practical ways to support kids—ways that go beyond what’s discussed in the article.

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Let’s start with the main premise.

Are kids learning less? Yes. We know that many students have lost learning this year. They are, in a sense, “behind.”

Does it matter? Yes, it matters. It impacts their mental health, social development, and even their future economic opportunities.

So what’s the conclusion?

If you’ve been following me, you may already know what I’m going to say: don’t rely on the school system alone to fix this gap. As adults in these kids’ lives, we need to take action ourselves.

I’m going to share specific things you can do to help.

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If you’re not familiar with me, my name is Seth Perler from sethperler.com. I’m an executive function coach, and I work with students who struggle to get things done, who don’t fit into the traditional school system.

These students are at even greater risk of experiencing the negative effects of learning loss.

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Let’s take a quick look at the article.

It discusses the lingering effects of unfinished learning and highlights that students, on average, are several months behind—about five months in math and four months in reading.

It also shows that existing inequalities have widened. Students in disadvantaged communities have been hit the hardest. There are also increased risks of dropping out, especially among high school students, and reduced likelihood of pursuing higher education.

The article also highlights the impact on mental health and the growing economic gap caused by unfinished learning.

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But instead of focusing only on the problem, let’s focus on solutions.

If you’re concerned about your child or a student, here are practical strategies you can use. Grab a notebook and write down the ones that resonate with you.

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### 1. Model the behavior

Kids learn by watching us.

The phrase “Do as I say, not as I do” is outdated. Kids do what we model.

Show that you value learning. Demonstrate curiosity. Let them see you reading, writing, learning new skills, or exploring hobbies.

When kids say “I hate learning,” what they really mean is they dislike the experience they’re having. We need to model a positive relationship with learning.

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### 2. Connect and do things together

Don’t just tell kids to learn—learn with them.

Do reading, writing, math, and other activities together. Even with busy schedules, find time to connect and engage in learning side by side.

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### 3. Use their interests

Tie learning to what they already care about.

Every interest—whether it’s gaming, sports, or art—includes elements of math, science, reading, and writing. Help them see those connections.

This is similar to interdisciplinary learning, where multiple subjects are integrated into one experience.

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### 4. Use metacognition

Metacognition means thinking about thinking.

Be aware of how you use skills like reading, writing, and math in everyday life—and talk about it out loud.

For example, say:
“Wow, I’m glad I know how to read—this article is really interesting.”

This helps kids recognize that learning happens all the time, not just in school.

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### 5. Know when to cut corners

Sometimes, schoolwork is busy work.

As a parent, you have limited time. Prioritize meaningful learning, connection, and well-being. If something truly isn’t valuable, it’s okay to make thoughtful decisions about how to handle it.

Teachers can do this too—sometimes it means adapting expectations to better serve students.

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### 6. Find mentors

Kids benefit from learning from people other than their parents.

Look for tutors, coaches, teachers, or role models who can inspire and reinforce the value of learning.

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### 7. Use documentaries

Documentaries are a great way to learn.

Family movie nights can become learning opportunities while still being enjoyable.

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### 8. Go to the library

Bring your child to the library regularly.

Create a distraction-free environment where reading is valued and encouraged.

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### 9. Talk daily about learning

Ask simple questions like:
“What did you learn today?”

Make learning a regular part of everyday conversation.

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### 10. Block time for deep learning

Set aside time for projects and deep exploration.

Dive into topics your child enjoys and turn them into learning experiences. Even something like a game can become an opportunity for creativity, research, and skill-building.

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### 11. Practice executive function at home

You’re already doing this—you just may not call it that.

Point it out. Talk through your thinking. Help kids see how skills like planning, organizing, and problem-solving show up in daily life.

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### 12. Focus on the relationship

This is the most important one.

Your relationship with your child is the foundation for everything else. It determines whether they trust you, seek help, and stay open to learning.

Spend time together. Be present. Have fun. Show love.

Learning matters—but connection matters more.

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### Final thoughts

Yes, learning loss is real, and the consequences are serious.

But don’t wait for the system to fix it.

Start now. Model the value of learning. Create meaningful experiences. Build strong relationships.

When kids believe that learning matters, they’re far more likely to engage with it—and that’s what will shape their future.

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My name is Seth Perler. If you found this helpful, feel free to share it, subscribe, or visit my site for more resources.

Most of all—go connect with your kid.

Take care.