Migrant Education Newsletter
June-July 2026
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June: Keep Learning Growing All Summer Long!
As summer begins, it can be tempting for learning routines to slow down, but young children continue learning through everyday experiences and play. The MEP School Readiness Calendar reminds us that families are children’s first teachers, and simple activities such as talking during meals, counting objects during errands, or exploring outside together can help build literacy, math, language, and social-emotional skills. Research continues to show that keeping children engaged over the summer helps maintain skills and confidence as they prepare for kindergarten and beyond. Families do not need expensive materials—learning can happen through everyday routines and play.
Ideas MEP staff can share with families or incorporate into summer programming:
Nature walks: Count rocks, leaves, or bugs and talk about colors and shapes.
Story time anywhere: Read books, tell family stories, or look at pictures and ask open-ended questions.
Summer scavenger hunts: Find something round, something red, something soft, etc.
Water play and science: Predict, pour, measure, and compare.
July: Small Moments Make a Big Difference
July is a great time to continue supporting school readiness while keeping learning fun. During the summer months, children can experience a “summer slide” when they have fewer opportunities to practice skills. The good news is that young children learn best through play, conversation, movement, and meaningful experiences with family members. The MEP School Readiness Calendar encourages families to turn everyday moments into learning opportunities and to keep curiosity growing all summer long.
Ideas MEP staff can share with families or use in summer programs:
Kitchen math: Count ingredients, sort snacks, and compare sizes.
Build and create: Use blocks, cups, boxes, or recycled materials to build towers and problem-solve.
Letter hunts: Look for letters in books, signs, food boxes, or grocery stores.
Practice routines: Encourage independence with dressing, cleaning up, washing hands, and following directions.
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Sunnyside 509-248-6726
White Salmon 509-281-1381
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Thank you for your continued dedication to serving migratory students and families. Your work makes a meaningful difference every day, and we appreciate your commitment to supporting student success across our region.