Keeping Learning Momentum for SEN Students During Summer Holidays
Evidence-based strategies to support your child's continued progress through the summer break
Summer holidays present both opportunities and challenges for families of children with special educational needs. While the break from formal schooling offers valuable rest and family time, maintaining learning momentum can help prevent skill regression and support continued progress. With about 1.7 million pupils in England (around 18.4% of pupils) recorded as having special educational needs in 2024/25, many families are seeking practical ways to support their children's learning during the summer months.
Building on School-Based Approaches
The most effective summer learning strategies often mirror the approaches that work well during term time. EEF places high-quality inclusive teaching at the heart of effective SEN provision in mainstream schools, and this principle applies equally to home learning activities.
Consider connecting with your child's school before the holidays begin. Teachers and SENCos can provide valuable insights into which strategies have been most effective for your child during the school year. Schools follow assess, plan, do and review in cycles, led by the class teacher and SENCo, normally reviewed with families at least three times a year, and summer planning can form part of these conversations.
The Power of Little and Often
One of the most practical approaches for summer learning comes from dyslexia support guidance. BDA recommends a little and often approach to homework rather than long sessions for dyslexic pupils, and this principle works well for many children with SEN during the holidays.
Rather than attempting lengthy study sessions that might lead to frustration or fatigue, consider:
- 15-20 minute focused activities spread throughout the day
- Breaking larger tasks into smaller, manageable chunks
- Incorporating learning into everyday activities like cooking, shopping, or family outings
- Using natural breaks between activities for quick skill practice
This approach helps maintain engagement while preventing the overwhelm that can sometimes accompany longer learning sessions.
Technology as a Learning Tool
When used thoughtfully, technology can provide valuable support for summer learning. EEF SEND guidance finds technology can be a useful tool for supporting teaching when integrated with high-quality inclusive pedagogy.
Consider how digital tools might support your child's specific needs:
- Text-to-speech software for children with reading difficulties
- Visual scheduling apps to help with organisation and routine
- Educational games that reinforce key skills in an engaging format
- Voice recording tools for children who find writing challenging
Tools like Milo can help parents track their child's learning patterns and identify when additional support might be helpful, providing insights that complement rather than replace professional guidance.
Creating Supportive Learning Environments
The summer holidays offer an opportunity to create learning environments tailored to your child's specific needs. Consider factors such as:
Physical Environment
- Quiet spaces free from distractions for focused activities
- Good lighting and comfortable seating
- Easy access to materials and resources
- Visual supports like schedules or reminder charts
Emotional Environment
- Celebrating small achievements and progress
- Maintaining realistic expectations
- Providing regular encouragement and positive feedback
- Allowing for breaks and flexibility when needed
Research shows that EEF Teaching and Learning Toolkit estimates feedback can deliver around six months' additional progress on average, highlighting the importance of regular, constructive responses to your child's efforts.
Collaborative Learning Opportunities
Summer can be an ideal time to explore different approaches to learning support. EEF Toolkit estimates small group tuition can deliver around four months' additional progress on average, suggesting that learning with peers or siblings can be beneficial.
Consider organising:
- Small learning groups with other families
- Peer support activities where children help each other
- Family learning projects that involve multiple family members
- Community-based learning opportunities like library programmes or museum visits
For families considering more intensive support, EEF Teaching and Learning Toolkit estimates one-to-one tuition can deliver around five months' additional progress on average, though this should complement rather than replace inclusive approaches.
Maintaining Connection with School
While summer is a break from formal education, maintaining some connection with school-based learning can help ensure continuity when term resumes. This might include:
- Reviewing and practising skills from the previous term
- Preparing for upcoming challenges in the new school year
- Maintaining contact with key school staff where appropriate
- Continuing any therapeutic interventions or support programmes
Remember that advocating effectively for your child includes sharing insights about what works well at home, helping schools understand your child's needs more completely.
Sources and Further Reading
Notice patterns while you wait for answers
Milo is a Chrome extension that works inside Google Docs. It learns from how your child writes (typing patterns, pauses, corrections) and surfaces early indicators that may be worth exploring further. It provides adaptive writing support from the first session. No referral. No waiting list. No assessment fee.