For most sped parents, we breathe a sigh of relief when the last day of school rolls around.  Whether it’s been a good or bad year, we all look forward to the time when we don’t need to worry about IEP’s, homework battles, social issues, etc.  More importantly, it’s great for our kids because for the summer they get to be just kids.  It’s an important time for them to be able to wind down and be who they are (our loveable children)!

For some of our children, summer vacation simply means more remediation so they don’t fall further behind; only you are paying for it.  Tutoring, LindaMood Bell classes, summer school.  Even when our kids are formally learning over the summer, we try to work in some fun time! 

Summertime can also be a time to put together a game plan for the next school year, whether this year was good or bad.  Time to research your child’s individual learning style, and what teaching strategies can help your child master core subjects.  Also a time to go over the annual IEP with a fine-tooth comb to check for accuracy (i.e., is it what you agreed to?), check to see if goals are meaningful and measurable, make sure that the present levels of academic performance are accurate, and that all services and remediations that you agreed to are there.  An educated and vigilant sped parent is the one that will be able to get the most out of  their school district for their child.

Enjoy the summer evenings, ice cream, swimming and just lazing around!

Have a great summer and if I can be of service regarding a plan for the next school year, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Diana

spedvocate@gmail.com