CHOICES FOR SUMMER ACTIVITIES FOR STUDENTS WITH DISABILITIES

BY LAUREN AGORATUS, M.A.

Children with specials needs may require continued learning in the summer months, particularly due to learning loss from the pandemic.

IS EXTENDED SCHOOL YEAR NEEDED?

Some students with disabilities may be eligible for "extended school year" services, or ESY. This is a discussion held each year with the IEP (Individualized Education Program) Team, which includes families. ESY may be needed to prevent a student from losing skills, especially if they are learning a new

one, to prevent regression. This is even more important as students with disabilities were most impacted during COVID 19. If the school district disagrees but the family thinks ESY is necessary, families can contact their Parent Center for information on how to appeal the denial of ESY services (see Resources).

KIDS NEED TO BE KIDS: All children learn through play. There are some fun recreational options out there that include adapted sports such as Little League, Miracle League, and Special Olympics and their inclusive sports programs under Project Unify.