For many who are dyslexic, the summer holidays warrant a sigh of relief as the academic year can be an extremely exhausting period. For many, the school break offers time away from the tensions that may be experienced from day-to-day school tasks and activities, yet some parents have a mind full of running thoughts around about this time as they question whether their child can afford to have all this unstructured time which can cultivate summer learning loss. Summer learning loss is where the absence from school can cause a backslide in knowledge and skills which could arguably be sustained in school. Such events can result in those that may already be finding school challenging falling further behind. However, a break from school does not necessarily have to mean a break from learning. Below are three tips that parents can use to keep up the momentum in children with dyslexia.
Children are no longer in a classroom for the next six weeks meaning they are not having to consume and recall information that may not necessarily be of interest to them. This is an opportunity to create a fun association with reading by giving them material that motivates them to read. This can be in the form of comic books, magazines or even mystery books that align with their interests. There is a world full of resources to suit everybody so let them decide on what it is that they want to read. This opportunity can also be seized by allowing them to read information pertaining to activities that may be on the agenda for the summer holidays.
If there is an opportunity to speak to class teachers about some of the content that will be covered in the next academic year, then do so! This gives children a head start and eases them into things. Subjects can be explored through excursions, museums and historical landmarks which can help spark curiosity and enhance knowledge of frequently used vocabulary and pronunciations of names. The chance to share insight into information that other class members may not know will also be available.
Learning outside of the school setting will look different for different age ranges but adapt activities so that it supports children in areas that may be most challenging to them. Move away from the traditional learning methods and use fun activities to incorporate studying such as using cooking to improve reading skills by reading out instructions aloud. Every activity can be used to educate children so keep your eyes peeled.
Remember to keep it simple and keep it fun. Have a great summer holiday!
The SEN Expert offers a range of services for young people, families and schools. We offer support for parents to help navigate the complex world of Special Educational Needs. We will work with you closely to ensure the best for your child.
The SEN Expert was set up by Claire in 2021 following a successful career spanning 12 years in school improvement, special educational needs, safeguarding and the arts.
Claire has worked as a Deputy Headteacher, Assistant Headteacher, Consultant and SENCO in both state and private schools in inner city London, the Southwest, the Midlands and the USA.
Throughout her career, Claire has ensured solid outcomes for the young people she has worked with. Be that a set of good exam grades, a placement in specialist setting or getting a part time job.
Claire is a working mother, and understands the challenges parents face trying to ensure their children are happy and successful. We aim to provide young people with a creative route to the personal and professional adult life they deserve.
We offer support for families, children, and schools to navigate the complex world of SEN.
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