How to Prevent the Summer (Speech Therapy) Slide
Updated: Aug 25
In this article we will discuss:
No more pencils, no more books.... Which child isn't happy about the last day of school. Kids get to put away their textbooks and deadlines, tests and projects. In exchange they get the lazy summer days without the structure of the school year.
But just like classroom learning ends, so do the school based speech therapy services your child might be getting. And when a child does not actively work on the speech or language skills they achieved in speech during the year, they may forget and "slide back" over the summer break. When the new year begins in the fall, that summer learning loss or “the summer slide” may occur.
Some research regarding summer learning loss has shown that:
Students may lose about two months worth of what they have learned over the school year.
Teachers often spend the first few weeks of a new school year re-teaching material from the last year. School based speech therapists often end up doing the same.
Do not stop teaching your child during Summer break
What Can Parents Do?
So what should parents do to stop or minimize the “summer slide”? At Better Speech we prepare our families for when their child's speech therapy services may end for the summer. Our speech language pathologists often suggest these types of simple ideas to keep your a child engaged in learning and practicing their speech therapy goals during the summer months.
Before the year is out, get a copy of your child's speech therapy goals or IEP and ask the speech therapist for some concrete ideas on what they should work on during summer break.
Try to read to your child for 20 minutes every day or ask your child to read 20 minutes every day.
When reading identify new vocabulary and review it on a regular basis.
Minimize technology and give your child books or real toys to play with; get down on the floor and play with them.
On long car rides listen to audiobooks or podcasts for kids.
Cook or work on arts and crafts activities with your child. This helps them follow simple directions.
Get a penpal for your child and have them practice writing letters, postcards or emails. They can also keep a summer journal or author a "what I did this summer" blog.
Parents are always happy to see their kids get out for summer and have plenty of unstructured free time. But it is important to give kids just the right amount of structure they need so that when they return to school in the fall, they wont feel frustrated by that feeling of being behind again. Progress in speech therapy gives a child confidence, and which parent doesn't like to see their child glowing with the "I know how to do that" smile?
If you need help with your child's speech therapy goals over the summer, the SLPs at Better Speech are available to make recommendations and suggestions. Just bring a copy of your child's speech therapy goals from school and our SLPs would be happy to review them with you during a free consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the summer speech therapy slide and how does it affect my child?
The summer speech therapy slide refers to the regression in communication skills that can happen when children take a long break from speech therapy during summer months. Without regular practice, kids may lose progress they worked hard to achieve during the school year. Starting back up in the fall can feel like starting over, which is frustrating for both children and parents.
How much practice does my child actually need over the summer to maintain their progress?
Even 15 to 20 minutes of intentional speech practice a few times a week can make a meaningful difference. The key is consistency rather than long sessions. Weaving practice into everyday activities like mealtime conversations, reading aloud, or storytelling games keeps skills sharp without making summer feel like school.
Can we really do effective speech therapy during the summer, or will my child resist it?
Absolutely, and summer can actually be a great time for therapy because routines are more flexible. Connecting speech goals to fun summer experiences like camp, travel, or hobbies keeps kids engaged and motivated. A skilled therapist can design sessions that feel like play, so your child stays on track without feeling like they are missing out.
What if we cannot find a speech therapist available over the summer due to waitlists or scheduling?
This is a real and common challenge, but online speech therapy has made access much easier. Better Speech offers licensed, insurance-ready care with no waitlists, so families can get started quickly without losing precious summer weeks. Teletherapy sessions are flexible enough to work around vacations and summer schedules, making consistency much more achievable.
Are there simple activities parents can do at home to support speech goals when formal sessions are not happening?
Yes, parents are powerful partners in their child's progress. Reading together, narrating daily activities, playing word games, and encouraging your child to tell stories about their day all reinforce speech and language skills naturally. Ask your child's therapist for a short list of home activities tied to their specific goals so your efforts are targeted and effective.
About the Author
Aycen Zambuto
I’m a seasoned educator in speech therapy with over six years of experience helping people navigate challenges in communication. Throughout this time, I’ve found joy in guiding individuals through a variety of therapeutic journeys, from toddlers with apraxia to seniors with dysphonia.
I’m passionate about demystifying this complex world of speech therapy and helping readers around the globe achieve clear and effective communication. When I’m not writing about speech, you’ll often find me reading, traveling or spending time with friends and family.
