Book Nook: How to Keep Your Kids Learning When Schools are Closed

Matthew Boulay, the founder and former CEO of the National Summer Learning Association (NSLA), announced today the release of his new e-book: How To Keep Your Kids Learning When Schools Are Closed: Tips, Tools and Activities to Help Parents Discover the Power of Summer Learning in the Era Of Covid-19. 

The e-book provides immediate guidance and easy-to-use, practical suggestions for every parent working to nurture and support their children during the Summer of COVID-19. The book draws on evidence from research, on conversations with parents, educators, and policy makers, and on Boulay’s own insights as a father, former teacher, military veteran, and decades long champion of summer learning.

“With the widespread closure of schools, camps, and summer programs, millions of parents are left feeling alone and overwhelmed. I wrote this e-book to help parents,” said Matthew Boulay. “The best summer learning approaches are characterized by flexibility, creativity, and an unyielding focus on the needs and interests of our children, which is exactly the approach needed in the current climate.”

A former elementary school teacher with a Ph.D. in Sociology and Education from Columbia University’s Teachers College, Boulay has published three other books on the topic of summer learning. 

Boulay will be discussing his book as part of an NSLA virtual event on Wednesday, May 27th at 11am. The event will feature leading health, education, and policy experts sharing key insights on the investments, programs, and policies critical to improving conditions for children and families during the summer months. Register for the event here.

“For more than 25 years, Matthew Boulay has been a visionary educator, leader, and advocate for children and families across the United States. As founder, former CEO, and current board member of the National Summer Learning Association, he has tirelessly put a spotlight on the issue of summer learning loss and the necessity to help all students learn, grow, and thrive, all year round,” said Aaron Philip Dworkin, CEO of the National Summer Learning Association. “Now with COVID-19 upending what education and learning looks like for millions of schools, students, and families, Matthew has once again stepped up to lead and be of service by writing When Schools Are Closed. It provides valuable guidance, fun, turn-key activities and useful resources families and students can use to keep learning this summer and beyond.”

Liz McChesney, former Director of Children's Services, Chicago Public Library, offered praise for the book: “Parents will love this book! It’s a much needed guide to help parents navigate the Summer of 2020 and is filled with fun and practical ideas all grounded in years of deeply respected research," she said.

The e-book was self-published by Boulay, with help from Dan Anglin, Founder of the Prince Henry Investment Group.

“I am thrilled to have played a small part in bringing this book to parents. As we approach this difficult summer, I hope it will be a valuable resource for parents around the country," said Dan Anglin.

How To Keep Your Kids Learning When Schools Are Closed: Tips, Tools and Activities to Help Parents Discover the Power of Summer Learning in the Era Of Covid-19 is now available for pre-order on Amazon, and will be released on June 1, 2020. The e-book will cost $2.99.