We are deep into summer now, and though this season provides a welcome break from the school routine, for many children with autism, it can also exacerbate what’s known as the “summer slide”.
Did you know that many children with autism can experience setbacks in both academic and social skills during these months? This is because without structured learning and regular social interaction, they are not receiving the repetitive practice many autistic students need to progress.
The problem with this? When school resumes, it can take weeks to regain lost skills and adjust to school routines once again.
Gersh Academy knows the uphill battle summer can feel like, which is why we provide continued education over the summer. To prevent summer regression, public schools offer many students with disabilities an Extended School Year program as well. Yet, beyond that, it is important to actively engage your child in activities that maintain their developmental progress.
With a month left of summer, take a look at some of our ideas to help your child avoid that summer regression and come back to school ready to go.
- Engage in Community Activities
Whenever you can, take your child with autism out into the community. Have them participate in local library events, if possible, or take a trip to a children’s museum. Head to an aquarium or zoo, or see what local community centers have to offer. Many programs give opportunities for children to explore new interests and engage with peers in a more structured setting where you are right there with them.
Even a trip to a convenient store can serve as a practical application of social and communication skills they have been learning. In this way, you are reinforcing learning in more enjoyable and diverse environments.
- Provide Daily Skills Practice
When your child has time off, it’s a good idea to implement a little skill practice each day. Set aside a 15 minute period for activities like reading, math problems, social skills, or handwriting–whichever your child is working on or needs to maintain for the fall. Have them help measure ingredients, count objects they see, pay for ice cream, discuss what they’ve read, and decipher signs they find, on the road or at the park.
This is the part of the summer for many students when either ESY or other summer programs are coming to an end, and when the excitement of the season slows down. Take this opportunity to bring academics back to the forefront in small, digestible increments.
- Keep a Consistent Routine
At this point, your usual schedule might be completely out the window with the type of fun only summer can bring. Now is a great opportunity to establish a daily schedule that includes time for learning, play, and relaxation, ensuring that your child remains engaged without feeling overwhelmed.
Try visual schedules to let your child know exactly what to expect. For transitions, timers and warnings can help them anticipate the change, reduce anxiety, and improve cooperation.
- Focus on Life Skills
This last month of summer is an excellent time to fit in some life skills that you might not have as much time for when the school year ramps up. Depending on your child’s age and abilities, activities like learning to prepare simple meals, managing personal hygiene, or taking public transportation can be introduced. Have them practice riding a bike or, if they are ready, take them out for a drive. All of these skills promote independence and can build confidence in handling new situations.
Preventing summer regression in children with autism requires a proactive approach to incorporating learning and development activities into the summer break. By engaging your child in some of these activities this month, you can end summer on a high note and feel confident when September comes around.
Gersh Academy works to support this continuity of education by ensuring our students return to school ready to learn and grow. To learn more about our unique program, don’t hesitate to reach out.
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