Achieving therapy progress over the summer break

As we move toward the end of the year, many families start thinking about what therapy might look like during the summer break. January and February feel quite different for families whose children usually receive support at school. Routines shift, schools close, and families often take well-deserved rest time.

For some families this means therapy naturally pauses, simply because school sessions are not available during this time. When this happens, the break can end up being longer than intended, especially if sessions rely on school availability. Sometimes therapy stops in mid-December and does not restart until late February or early March.

Every child learns differently. Some continue progressing steadily with family routines and natural opportunities to practise skills. Others benefit from a little extra support during long breaks to help maintain momentum or to feel more confident moving into a new school year.

There is no right or wrong way to approach the holiday period. Our role is to explore flexible options that match your child’s needs, your family’s routines, and your capacity during what can be a busy season.

Here are a few supports that families sometimes find helpful in January and February

1. Assessments

The quieter period can be a good time to complete assessments that are harder to schedule during the term, such as communication, handwriting, mealtime, or functional capacity assessments.

2. Short, Targeted Therapy Blocks

Some families choose a short series of sessions focused on a specific area, such as:

• school or kindergarten transition
• toilet learning
• community access or public transport independence
• daily living skills
• supporting teens with new routines

3. Therapy in Different Environments

When school isn’t available, therapy can continue in places that feel comfortable and meaningful for your child:

• home visits
• community-based sessions
• telehealth

Many children enjoy practising skills in familiar real-life settings.

4. Goal Setting for the Year Ahead

January and February can also be a useful time to reflect on progress, update goals, and prepare early for NDIS reviews so the new year feels more organised.

Your therapist will work with you to explore which, if any, of these options feel right for your child and your family. Our aim is simply to support your child’s wellbeing, confidence, and communication in ways that fit your values and daily life.

If you have any questions or would like to chat through possibilities, we’re here to help.

Contact Us