Protecting Progress: A Parent’s Guide to the Dyslexia Summer Slide

The “summer slide” refers to the loss of academic skills that occurs when structured instruction stops. For children with dyslexia, this dip can be particularly significant in areas like decoding, fluency, and spelling. Without consistent, intentional support, the hard-earned progress made during the school year can weaken, making it much more difficult for students to regain their momentum in the fall.

The goal of this guide is not to replicate a full school day at home, but to offer a lighter, more intentional approach. By focusing on skill maintenance and positive language experiences, you can ensure your child starts the new school year feeling capable and confident.

What is Included in This Guide:

• Understanding the Slide: A clear breakdown of why children with dyslexia are more susceptible to skill loss and how to identify critical gaps before they widen.
• Consistency Without Burnout: Practical strategies for reducing cognitive load while keeping literacy skills active through daily “micro-moments” of learning.
• Multisensory Summer Activities: A curated list of engaging, research-based ways to incorporate the Science of Reading into summer fun, from audiobooks to interactive word games.
• The Power of Confidence: Guidance on how to prioritize your child’s emotional well-being and create a positive association with reading during the summer months.
• Evaluating Summer Support: Essential questions to ask when looking for outside help, ensuring any summer program uses evidence-based, CALT-led instruction.
• Summer Support Options: An overview of how Dyslexia On Demand can provide flexible, individualized therapy to keep your student on track regardless of your summer travel plans.