Understanding Summer Learning Regression in Children with Autism: How Summer Intensives Can Help

Summer break brings sunshine, fun, and a welcome change for many families. But for parents of children with autism, summer can also bring worries about learning loss—often called the “summer slide.” Let’s explore what this means for children with autism and how specialized summer programs can help keep skills strong.

What is the summer slide?

The summer slide happens when students lose some of the knowledge and skills they gained during the school year while they’re away from the classroom over summer break. This affects many children and has been well-studied by education researchers.

The academic impact on children has been extensively studied with research showing between 70% and 78% of elementary students experience a decline in math skills over the summer and loss of up to 20% of school year reading gains. While these numbers are concerning for all children, the summer slide can create bigger challenges for children with autism.

How summer learning regression affects children with autism

For children with autism spectrum disorder, summer break impacts more than just academic skills. Research shows that children with autism are at higher risk for regression during summer months. This affects not only academic progress but also social skills, emotional control, and daily functioning.

A 2021 study tracking 4,200 students from kindergarten to fourth grade found that students in special education, including those with autism, lost more learning over each summer than students not in special education. The researchers concluded that summer learning opportunities are crucial for improving outcomes for students with disabilities.

Why does this happen? For children with autism, the lack of structure and routine during summer can lead to setbacks in both academic and social skills. Without regular practice and support, these children may need weeks to regain lost skills and readjust to school routines once classes begin again.

The challenges include:

  • Disruption of routine: Many children with autism thrive on predictable schedules. Summer break changes these established routines, potentially causing anxiety and skill loss.
  • Fewer learning opportunities: Without daily structured learning, there are fewer chances to practice and strengthen skills.
  • Social skill regression: Less guided social interaction can lead to a decline in hard-earned social skills.
  • Behavior challenges: Changes in routine may increase challenging behaviors that had been previously managed in structured settings.

When kids with autism don’t have their regular support and structure during summer break, they can lose some of the skills they worked so hard to build. This can make going back to school in the fall even harder. That’s why keeping some kind of regular, structured learning over the summer is so important.

Bridging the gap: How summer intensive programs help

Understanding this higher risk of regression for children with autism, many families look for ways to maintain progress during summer months. This is where structured summer programs, especially ABA (Applied Behavior Analysis) summer intensives, can make a real difference.

ABA is a special approach that helps us understand and change behavior in positive ways. At Behavioral Learning Network, we use ABA therapy to help children with autism learn important skills and reduce challenging behaviors.

Summer intensive programs provide:

  • Consistency and structure: Maintaining a predictable environment during summer months
  • Focused skill building: Concentrated work on specific skills that need strengthening
  • Behavioral support: Continued guidance for managing challenging behaviors
  • Social opportunities: Structured chances to practice social interactions in a supportive setting
  • Smoother transitions: Easier adjustment when returning to school in the fall

These programs aren’t about taking away summer fun—they create a balanced approach that includes both learning and enjoyment while preventing significant skill loss.

What makes an effective summer intensive program?

Good summer programs for children with autism don’t just fill time—they provide meaningful learning opportunities in a structured, supportive environment that feels safe and engaging for your child.
Here are some things to look for when choosing a summer intensive:

  • Personalized approach: Programs should be tailored to each child’s specific needs, strengths, and challenges.
  • Proven methods: Using research-based approaches like Applied Behavior Analysis ensures the program is built on solid foundations.
  • Trained professionals: Staff should have training and expertise in autism and behavioral support.
  • Clear structure: Consistent schedules and routines help children feel secure and know what to expect.
  • Meaningful goals: Focus on specific, achievable objectives that will help in daily life.
  • Family involvement: Opportunities for parents to learn strategies they can use at home.

When all these pieces come together, summer programs can actually turn what might have been a season of skill loss into a time of real growth for your child.

Supporting your child this summer

As a parent, you’ve seen how much your child thrives with routine and structure—and summer doesn’t have to mean losing that progress.

Remember that preventing summer slide doesn’t mean eliminating fun—it’s about finding a balance that works for your family while supporting your child’s continued development.

Learning more about our summer intensive program

At Behavioral Learning Network, we’re thrilled to offer an 8-Week Summer Intensive ABA Program designed to make meaningful progress in a focused timeframe. Our aim is to help children with autism reduce challenging behaviors and strengthen key life skills like communication, cooperation, and tolerance through our proven skills-based treatment approach.

Your child will receive:

  • Personalized ABA treatment with a Functional Behavior Assessment (FBA)
  • One-on-one support from highly trained clinicians
  • 8 weeks of intensive therapy designed for real change
  • A plan for continued care or transition after completion

This is the perfect opportunity to give your child a strong, skill-building summer in a supportive and structured environment. The summer intensive is a great way to prepare your child for success in the upcoming school year.

If you’d like to learn more about how our summer intensive program might benefit your child, please reach out to us. Our team is here to answer your questions and help you decide if this approach is right for your child and family.