AFT LAUNCHES WEB SITE FOR SUMMER LEARNING ACTIVITIES
Summer Learning Calendar’s Space and Astronomy Theme
Provides Mixture of Fun and Education

Washington, D.C. -- The American Federation of Teachers has launched an interactive Summer Learning Calendar Web site to keep children learning – even after the school year ends. The site’s activities focus on astronomy and stargazing, and its colorful illustrations and interactive games will be a hit with preteens.

Featuring just the right blend of fun and educational activities, the Summer Learning Calendar is that rare Web site that appeals to children and offers them an opportunity to learn. Preteens who visit the site can "explore" the Solar System, the universe and space travel – and have a lot of fun. The activities include building a model solar system, locating constellations in the night sky and conducting a gravity experiment.

"These activities are just the right mix of fun and learning for the summer months," said Rob Weil, deputy director of the AFT’s educational issues department. "Parents and teachers will appreciate these activities because they’re educational, and kids will like the site because it’s a fun way to learn," he added.

Visitors to the Web site can download a printable version of the calendar or return each week to take full advantage of the site’s frequent updates and interactive features.

The AFT created the site to help teachers and parents combat the "summer drop-off." Research shows that while students make measurable academic progress during the school year, some students, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds, slip back during the summer. is that rare Web site that appeals to children and offers them an opportunity to learn. Preteens who visit the site can "explore" the Solar System, the universe and space travel – and have a lot of fun. The activities include building a model solar system, locating constellations in the night sky and conducting a gravity experiment.

"These activities are just the right mix of fun and learning for the summer months," said Rob Weil, deputy director of the AFT’s educational issues department. "Parents and teachers will appreciate these activities because they’re educational, and kids will like the site because it’s a fun way to learn," he added.

Visitors to the Web site can download a printable version of the calendar or return each week to take full advantage of the site’s frequent updates and interactive features.

The AFT created the site to help teachers and parents combat the "summer drop-off." Research shows that while students make measurable academic progress during the school year, some students, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds, slip back during the summer.

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The AFT represents more than 1.3 million pre-K through 12th-grade teachers, paraprofessionals and other school support employees, higher education faculty, nurses and other healthcare workers, and state and local government employees.