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It is important to focus on a student's emotional and behavior skills during the extended school year (ESY) to prevent regression in those areas. Maintaining a student's academic skill level is only half of the battle; we also need to make sure that the student is practicing social and emotional skills so they can stay up to speed when it comes to behaviors.
Self-Regulation Skills
Students need to continue working on their regular school year self-regulation skills during ESY. Have them practice asking for breaks when needed or using fidgets more independently.
Coping Skills
Transitioning to and from ESY and the regular school year can be a big adjustment for some students, making coping skill practice very important. These skills can be different for each student. They may involve visual schedules to familiarize a student with the day or working independently to seek out calming tools when upset.
Social Skills
ESY is a great time to practice interpersonal skills with students who might not have the same social group as the regular school year. Work on creating connections with peers and staff members and problem solving in times of conflict.
Expectations
Encourage appropriate school behavior (e.g. listening when someone is talking, raising your hand when you have a question). If there is a Behavior Intervention Plan, make sure it is being carried out during ESY.
Parent Involvement
Children may have more time with their parents, which is why it is so important to get their input when it comes to academic and non-academic ESY services. Sometimes parents share information school staff would otherwise not be aware of that impacts a student's learning. Involved parents are also more likely to work on and support IEP goals at home.
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