Preparing for Summer

Preparing for Summer Speech Therapy and Occupational Therapy Services

As the school year winds down, many children who receive therapy services through school might be heading into a break—just when consistency can be most important. Without the structured support they’re used to during the academic year, progress in areas like speech and occupational therapy can plateau or even regress. That’s why summer can be an ideal time for families to consider private therapy services. These sessions can help maintain momentum, reinforce skills, and even tackle new goals in a more relaxed, personalized setting.

Why Summer Services Matter

Summer offers a more flexible schedule and fewer academic demands, making it a great time to focus on therapeutic goals. For children in speech therapy, summer is a chance to practice communication skills in everyday settings. For those in occupational therapy, it’s a time to build independence, strengthen motor skills, and regulate sensory input without the time pressures of the school day.

Preparing for Speech Therapy

1. Review Goals: Start by checking in with your child’s current therapist or IEP team. What goals were set during the school year? Which ones need more time? This will help guide private therapy planning for the summer.

   
   

2. Create a Summer Routine: Even with the more relaxed pace of summer, maintaining a consistent schedule helps kids thrive. Block out time each week for sessions, and build in small opportunities for daily practice.

   
   

3. Incorporate Fun Activities: Use outings like zoo trips, beach days, or family vacations as natural moments to work on speech and language. Practicing new vocabulary, sequencing events, or simply engaging in conversations all support progress.

   
   

Preparing for Occupational Therapy

1. Adapt to the Season: Summer activities like swimming, climbing, and outdoor play can support many OT goals. Talk to your child’s therapist about how to use these naturally therapeutic experiences as part of their plan.

   
   

2. Create a Supportive Space at Home: Whether it's a quiet sensory corner or an area for messy play, small home adaptations can go a long way in supporting your child’s development.

   
   

3. Set Realistic, Enjoyable Goals: Summer isn’t about pushing harder—it’s about sustaining and gently building on existing skills. Make sure therapy feels like a positive part of your child’s week.

   
   

Collaboration and Consistency

While summer might look different from the rest of the year, therapy doesn’t have to stop. With the right support and planning, private speech and occupational therapy can make the summer months a powerful time for growth, confidence-building, and even a little fun. Connect with your providers early to get a schedule in place—and enjoy the sunshine while you’re at it!