Summer is a time for fun, relaxation, and making memories. However, it can also be a time when children lose some of the speech and language skills they've worked so hard to build throughout the year. The good news? Practicing speech and language doesn't have to feel like homework!
Some of the best learning happens during everyday summer activities — and here in New Jersey, we have plenty of opportunities to make that happen.
Take Speech Practice to the Beach
A trip to the beach offers countless opportunities to work on communication skills. Encourage your child to:
Beach Day Communication Ideas
- Describe what they see, hear, and feel
- Practice target speech sounds while collecting shells or building sandcastles
- Follow directions during beach games
- Ask questions and engage in conversations with family members
Turn Everyday Outings into Learning Opportunities
Whether you're at the park, pool, zoo, or grocery store, encourage your child to talk about their experiences. Ask open-ended questions to spark conversation:
Try Asking These Questions
- "What was your favorite part?"
- "What do you think will happen next?"
- "Can you tell me about what you see?"
These conversations help build vocabulary, language skills, and confidence — all while you're already out and about.
Read, Play, and Explore
Reading books together, playing board games, doing crafts, and exploring nature are all excellent ways to support speech and language development. Focus on making communication fun and meaningful rather than perfect.
Great Summer Activities for Language Growth
- Read a new book together each week
- Play board games that require conversation and turn-taking
- Do crafts and describe the steps out loud
- Explore nature and name what you find
- Cook or bake together and follow recipe directions
Small Moments Make a Big Difference
Children of all ages and abilities benefit from regular opportunities to communicate. Just a few minutes of intentional practice each day can help maintain skills and make the transition back to school or therapy much smoother.
of intentional communication practice per day can help prevent skill loss over the summer.
This summer, remember that speech and language practice can happen anywhere. From building sandcastles at the beach to chatting during a family walk, every conversation is an opportunity to learn and grow.
Questions About Summer Therapy?
Wondering if your child should continue speech therapy over the summer? We're happy to help you figure out the best plan for your family.
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