Discussing Autism

This year my son does not qualify for Extended School Year (ESY), as he did last year. Some of your children will and that, depending upon the school district, may be a very good thing.

For us, last year, it was something to pass his time and to fill his mornings. I don’t think that he learned anything new or that he progressed but he was able to keep a school schedule, continue to take a bus to school everyday, and maintain a some of what he had learned the year before.

ESY should always be offered to a child who shows regression throughout the school year, to a child who NEEDS a schedule and NEED routine that would not be provided at home, and for a child that exhibits behavioral or emotional problems that would increase if not in the school system.

Last year AJ’s teachers tested for regression after the Holiday Break, a typical time to test for regression. At that time it took him over 40 days to get back on schedule and to be able to function appropriately in the classroom. This year after the holiday break he not only returned to school in an appropriate manner from the start but he also returned to a different class (same teacher) and at a different time. He showed an incredible transformation.

This year I did not think that AJ needed summer school. In fact, I did not want him to attend summer school because it is only a half day program. Instead, I wanted him to attend a full day summer camp so that he could adjust to a full day of activity, as he is going to all day Kindergarten in the fall. For some of you, this may be a better choice as well.

There are, depending upon districts, different types of ESY programs but every school district is mandated to provide one. Instruction should always be based upon your child’s IEP but can be altered to provide maintenance instead of acquisition of new skills.
Delivery options for ESY services include but are not limited to the following:

1. The traditional 2- to 6-week school-based summer program.
2. Home consultation to provide support and instruction to parents in preventing regression.
3. Residential placement in a boarding facility.
4. Summer camp or recreational programs that provide opportunities for maintenance of skills.
5. Private summer school programs providing the least restrictive environment available.

Support services should also be made available when they are required for maintenance of skills. These services may include speech therapy, physical and occupational therapy, and adaptive physical education.

What type of program do you have and is your child attending?