Mechanicsburg

Finish Strong: Why the Last Two Months of the Year Matter for Students

As the year winds down, families often shift their focus toward the holidays, travel, and well-earned rest. But November and December can also be the most strategic months of the academic year. While many students slow down, this is your child’s opportunity to get ahead, close learning gaps, and build confidence before the new year begins.

At Best Brains Mechanicsburg, we know that consistency in learning matters — especially when momentum is on your side.

1. The Learning Gap Widens When Kids Take a Break

Research consistently shows that extended breaks from academic activity can lead to learning loss. This is known as the "holiday slide" — similar to the summer slide, but shorter. When students disconnect from routine study, even for just a few weeks, it becomes harder to re-engage in January. Staying consistent now means a smoother transition later.

2. It’s the Perfect Time to Catch Up or Get Ahead

With midyear report cards and teacher feedback coming in, you might already know where your child is struggling — or excelling. The final months of the year offer a low-stress opportunity to reinforce key concepts, revisit missed skills, or even advance to new material in preparation for 2026. Our individualized curriculum allows students to grow at their own pace.

3. Shorter Weeks = Smarter Planning

School schedules are often shorter around the holidays, and many extracurricular activities wind down. That means you can refocus attention on academics without the overload. One or two extra hours a week at Best Brains could have a massive impact by the time school resumes in January.

4. Build a Strong Mindset to Start the New Year Right

Confidence is a major predictor of academic success. When students feel prepared and capable, they’re more likely to participate in class, take academic risks, and persist through challenges. Finishing the year strong gives kids a motivational boost that carries into January and beyond.

Make the Most of November and December at Best Brains Mechanicsburg

We offer year-round programs in Math, English, Coding, Public Speaking, and Abacus, all designed to meet students at their level and help them succeed. Whether your child needs review, enrichment, or a complete academic reset, there’s no better time to start than now.

New families can schedule a free placement test today — and set your child up for a confident start in 2026.

References & Further Reading

1. Alexander, K. L., Entwisle, D. R., & Olson, L. S. (2007). Lasting consequences of the summer learning gap. American Sociological Review, 72(2), 167–180. https://doi.org/10.1177/000312240707200202
2. Allington, R. L., & McGill-Franzen, A. (2013). Summer reading: Closing the rich/poor reading achievement gap. Teachers College Press.
3. Cooper, H., Nye, B., Charlton, K., Lindsay, J., & Greathouse, S. (1996). The effects of summer vacation on achievement test scores: A narrative and meta-analytic review. Review of Educational Research, 66(3), 227–268.
4. Sparks, S. D. (2015). Holiday break learning loss a concern for some educators. Education Week. https://www.edweek.org/