Keeping Up Therapy Progress During the Summer: 6 Tips for a Smooth Transition from School

As the school year winds down, many families look forward to summer's slower pace and flexibility. However, this transition can present some unique challenges for children receiving therapy services, whether for speech, motor skills, sensory integration, or behavioural goals. The structured routines of the school environment play a big role in reinforcing therapy strategies. Without that consistency, it’s common for some children to lose momentum or even regress in their progress.

Fortunately, with a little planning and support, summer can still be a time of growth. Here are some practical tips to help your child maintain their therapy progress and transition smoothly from school to summer and back again in the fall:

1. Stick to a Routine (Even a Flexible One)

While summer doesn’t need to be as rigid as the school year, a predictable daily structure is still helpful. Try to maintain consistent wake-up, meal, and bedtime routines. Schedule blocks of time for movement, play, quiet time, and any therapy-related activities. Even loose structure gives children a sense of security and can support behaviour regulation and attention.

2. Keep Therapy Goals Top of Mind

Ask your child’s therapist for a summer carryover plan or home program. This may include simple activities at home to reinforce specific goals. For example, a child working on fine motor skills might benefit from summer crafts like bead-stringing or playing with play dough, while a speech-language goal might be supported through themed story time or language-rich outings.

3. Integrate Learning Into Play

Summer is the perfect time to turn everyday activities into therapeutic opportunities. Trips to the park, grocery store, or even a backyard picnic can be used to practice communication, sensory regulation, or motor planning. Follow your child’s lead, and look for ways to embed skill-building into the things they enjoy.

4. Consider Summer Programs or Camps

Specialized developmental camps or therapeutic recreation programs are great options to help bridge the gap between school-based services and fall routines. At York Paediatrics, for example, our summer camp offers structured support in areas like social interaction, sensory processing, and motor development, all in a fun, play-based environment.

5. Communicate With Your Team

Don’t hesitate to contact your child’s therapists over the summer if you have questions or need ideas. If your child is transitioning to a new school, new grade, or new support team in the fall, keep notes on what works well over the summer. These observations can help with planning a smoother September.

6. Be Gentle With Yourself

Progress doesn’t always look linear, and that’s okay. Summer is a time for rest and connection, too. Focus on maintaining your child’s confidence and emotional well-being. Small wins, like a successful play date, trying new food, or mastering a daily routine, are meaningful and important.

With intention and support, summer can be a season of continued growth and joy for your child. If you’re looking for personalized summer strategies or want to learn more about our programs, contact the York Pediatrics team. We’re here to help.