Let's Talk ESY: Is it the Right Fit for Your Child?

As the school year winds down, a new topic often comes up in IEP meetings: Extended School Year (ESY) services. You might be wondering, "What exactly is ESY, and is it something my child needs?"

Think of ESY not as traditional summer school, but as a targeted support system designed to prevent your child from losing significant skills they've worked so hard to gain during the regular school year. For our amazing neurodivergent kids and those with disabilities, consistent support can make a world of difference in maintaining their progress.

Remember, as a parent, you are a huge part of the IEP team! When the team discusses ESY eligibility, your insights and observations are invaluable.

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Inclusiveology offers Consultations, IEP Reviews, and Parent IEP Coaching to maximize your knowledge of what's best for your kid's learning, growth, and independence. Reach out and let us know how we can help. Schedule your consultation HERE!

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To help you prepare for this conversation, let's consider some important questions based on your child's experiences this past year:

• Have you noticed significant skill regression after breaks in the past? Think back to winter break, spring break, or even long weekends. Did your child seem to lose ground on academic skills, communication abilities, self-care routines, or social interactions? If skills tend to slip during time off, ESY could provide the consistent practice needed to maintain those gains.

• Are there specific IEP goals your child hasn't yet met that could benefit from continued support over the summer? Perhaps your child is close to mastering a particular reading skill, a social communication strategy, or a self-regulation technique. ESY can offer the extra time and focused attention to help them solidify these skills before the new school year begins.

• Would consistent routines and academic engagement during the summer months be beneficial for your child's overall well-being and progress? For many neurodivergent kids, predictability and structure are key to their comfort and success. A consistent ESY schedule can help maintain a sense of routine, prevent boredom and potential behavioral challenges that can arise from unstructured time, and keep their minds actively engaged.

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If you answered YES to any of these questions, it's time to actively advocate for ESY during your upcoming IEP review or amendment meeting. Don't hesitate to share your observations and concerns with the team.

It's also important to think beyond just academics when considering ESY. Could this be an opportunity for:

• Social Skills Development: ESY programs often have smaller class sizes and a more relaxed atmosphere, which can create a supportive environment for practicing social interactions and building friendships.

• Continued Support for Self-Regulation Strategies: If your child has been working on strategies to manage their emotions or sensory needs, ESY can provide a consistent space to practice these skills with support from trained professionals.

  
  

Ultimately, the decision about ESY should be based on your child's individual needs and what will best support their continued growth and prevent significant skill loss. By reflecting on the past year and actively participating in the IEP discussion, you can ensure your child receives the services they need to thrive, even during the summer months.

Need help understanding ESY and other supports?

Feeling overwhelmed or unsure where to start? DJ at Inclusiveology is here to help! With a solution-centered approach, she offers guidance and support to parents of neurodivergent kids and those with disabilities. Schedule a free initial consultation and let's work together to ensure your child's IEP truly empowers their growth and success.