Media Advisory: Combating Learning Loss When School Is Out
Published January 16, 2025
Roanoke, VA (January 16, 2025) — Snow days provide a welcome pause and an opportunity to enjoy the outdoors for many families. However, for others, these interruptions disrupt routines, which can lead to setbacks in learning and well-being. Parents are often left scrambling to find reliable childcare in these temporary and often unpredictable situations.
“Long breaks such as the holidays, spring break, and especially summer can result in learning loss,” said Alicia Kindred, YMCA of Virginia’s Blue Ridge Association Childcare Director and Kirk Family YMCA Branch Executive Director. “Childcare gaps also remain a significant challenge in our community, leaving many parents struggling to find reliable options.”
While the pandemic’s peak has passed, its effects linger. Stanford University economist Eric Hanushek estimates that if learning loss is not addressed, the average student’s lifetime earnings could be 6% lower. Across the board students are falling behind in both reading and math, putting our most vulnerable youth at risk of a diminished future.
The YMCA of Virginia’s Blue Ridge works every day to combat learning loss decline by featuring STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) projects in its daily childcare offerings.
“We love incorporating STEM projects at the Y, and families can easily recreate these at home,” Kindred said. “One activity, Jack Frost’s Crystal Canvas, teaches children about crystal formation and emotions while allowing them to express themselves artistically. Another favorite is the Elf Zipline, which encourages kids to apply engineering skills to design and test a zipline for an elf to travel across a room.”
“These activities keep kids actively engaged while fostering essential skills that lay the foundation for future success,” added Kindred.
Interactive Interview
Alicia Kindred is available for an interview and to share these simple, impactful STEM activities (Jack Frost’s Crystal Canvas, Elf Zipline) with your audience. To schedule a live or recorded interview with Kindred please contact Ceci Leonard, (540)357-2500, [email protected].
About Kindred
Alicia Kindred has been a vital part of the YMCA’s success and continues to drive its mission of supporting children and families in the community. The YMCA of Virginia’s Blue Ridge has provided childcare services to the Roanoke, Salem, Botetourt, and Rockbridge communities for decades.