For many families with children who have special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), the long summer break can feel like a mixed blessing. While the pause in routine offers a chance to reset, it can also bring challenges – especially when consistency and structure are key to your child’s wellbeing and progress.
At Hyde Tutoring, we understand that learning doesn’t stop in the Summer. For many children with SEND, gentle continuity and thoughtful planning over the holidays can make a meaningful difference come September.
Here’s how we support SEND learners during the holidays – and some simple strategies to consider at home too.
- Structured, Low-Pressure Learning
Summer shouldn’t feel like school. But light-touch, structured learning – built around your child’s interests – can provide a sense of routine and purpose. Our 1:1 tutoring sessions are tailored to your child’s pace and needs, with clear objectives and plenty of encouragement.
We work closely with families to understand how their child learns best. Whether that means building in more movement breaks, using visual prompts, or adapting materials to suit different processing styles, our tutors are experienced in delivering SEND-friendly, neuroinclusive support.
- Reinforcing Core Skills with Confidence
Some children benefit from revisiting key skills during the holidays – from phonics and number bonds to comprehension and writing. Our approach focuses on small steps, encouraging independence while gently building your child’s confidence.
There’s no rush or pressure. Just the space to explore learning in a calm, supportive environment – always led by your child’s needs.
- Emotional Wellbeing Comes First
Academic progress means little if a child is anxious or overwhelmed. Our tutors are trained to be calm, patient and responsive – taking the time to get to know each learner, and adjusting pace and content as needed.
- SEND-Friendly Ideas for Learning at Home
You don’t need a packed schedule or complex activities to keep learning going over the summer. Often, simple, SEND-friendly ideas – woven into your routine – can have a big impact. Here are a few gentle ways to support your child at home:
- Build a soft routine: A visual timetable with just 2–3 activities a day can offer reassuring structure without pressure.
- Use everyday tasks for learning: Cooking, gardening, or sorting the laundry can build numeracy, sequencing, and fine motor skills.
- Create a calm reading corner: Let your child choose their favourite books and spend time reading together regularly – even 10 minutes a day helps.
- Keep writing relaxed: Encourage lists, letters, or comic strips if traditional writing tasks feel hard.
- Try sensory play: water trays, Play-Doh, sand, or fidget toys can support regulation and be built into learning time.
- Celebrate small wins: Notice progress, no matter how small – it builds confidence and a positive learning mindset.
The transition back to school in September can feel smoother if your child has kept a gentle link to learning over the holidays. If you’d like to find out more about how Hyde Tutoring can support your child this summer – whether through revision, enrichment, or confidence-building sessions – please don’t hesitate to get in touch.
We believe every child should feel seen, supported, and able to succeed – in their own way, and at their own pace.
To learn more about our SEND-friendly tutoring options over the summer break, please contact us.