School Skills in the Summer
Kids with Special Needs Maintain Math and Reading
As summer approaches, parents of kids with special needs consider fun activities, sports, and childcare.
Many also look for ways for their children to maintain hard-earned academic skills. It is not necessarily a matter of summer school (ESY – extended school year). It is a matter of using the skills that their children have worked so hard to get. Many families feel that summer “work” should focus on Math and Reading. Here are some ways to work a little academic practice into a summer fun schedule.
Start with the IEP (Individualized Education Plan). It will outline skills that the child consistently uses at school as well as areas that need work. In particular, the goals and objectives will state areas of focus for the next school year. The IEP offers a progression of skills. In other words, if the child reads at the fourth grade level, but he is in the sixth grade, it would be a jump to work on sixth grade reading. Instead, start with fourth grade and work up to harder skills as the child is ready.
Skill-based Websites
Conduct a search for the desired skills. Sites are available for every school subject. Many ask for the grade level of work desired. Some (such as Math sites) ask for the specific kinds of problems needed. For example, does the child need to practice math facts (8 x 3) or double digit multiplication (24 x 18)?
Flashcards
Card with reading words or math facts can be purchased at teacher supply and discount stores. They can also be made by printing in index cards. Set aside a small amount of time to practice with the cards everyday. Make a stack of the cards with the correct answer and those that need practice.
Workbook and Worksheets
These products can be purchased for every grade and subject. Often teachers are willing put together a packet of practice materials.
Tutors
Some children thrive by hearing the information presented in a different way (different person). Tutoring businesses are common. High school and college students as well as teachers are great tutors.
Family Reading Time
Make a time to read together a regular part of the summer schedule. This time can include trips to the library or book store, family read aloud time, listening to books on tape, and just teaching by the example of reading.
Summer Reading Clubs
Check with the local library for summer reading club information. Kids love to read with an incentive. Charts, prizes, and encouraging words make summer reading club attractive, yet free.
Summer doesn’t have to be work, work, work to maintain skills. It is, however, a great time to get in a little practice on those school skills that will be there in the fall.
