The Summer Slide Is Real
Research shows students with disabilities often experience greater summer regression than peers. Proactive planning now can protect months of progress.
Why Behavior Skills Regress
Structure Loss
School provides predictable routines that support behavior regulation. Summer schedules are often inconsistent.
Reinforcement Gaps
Token economies and structured reinforcement systems typically do not transfer to home settings without explicit planning.
Creating Home-Friendly Intervention Plans
Simplify Drastically
Choose the 2-3 most critical behaviors to maintain. A focused plan is more likely to be implemented.
Use Natural Reinforcers
Token economies rarely transfer. Identify reinforcers already available at home.
Prevention Is Easier Than Recovery
Time invested now in summer planning can save weeks of recoupment in the fall.
Take Action
Put what you've learned into practice with these resources.
Key Takeaways
- Understand why summer regression occurs and which students are most at risk
- Create parent-friendly home intervention plans that are actually implementable
- Document ESY eligibility using behavior data effectively
- Design bridge activities that maintain skills during breaks
Ready to Transform Your Classroom?
See how Classroom Pulse can help you streamline behavior data collection and support student outcomes.
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About the Author
Dr. Sarah Mitchell consists of former Special Education Teachers and BCBAs who are passionate about leveraging technology to reduce teacher burnout and improve student outcomes.
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