Reading should be an adventure, but for families with children who live with a struggling reader due to dyslexia, ADHD, or other learning differences, keeping up with reading over the summer can feel overwhelming.
Still, there is good news for parents who agonize over their struggling reader! With the right strategies, tools, and mindset, summer reading can become an empowering and even enjoyable part of any child’s growth.
Why Reading Matters—Especially for Struggling Readers
For students who find reading challenging, reading regression over summer break can be especially steep. According to the Arizona Department of Education, consistent reading practice over the summer helps maintain literacy gains and prepares students for the next school year.
Without it, students with dyslexia or ADHD may lose critical progress made during the academic year—making fall transitions harder both academically and emotionally.
Children with reading difficulties have their own set of challenges and may experience:
- Fatigue or frustration while reading
- Trouble focusing for long periods
- Difficulty decoding or remembering words
- Low confidence or self-esteem around literacy tasks
At Rockwood Prep Academy, we integrate evidence-based academic strategies with ABA therapy, social-emotional support, and individualized instruction—all designed to help your child succeed in school and reading on their own terms.
6 Steps to Build a Successful Reading Plan
Whether your child has an IEP or just needs extra encouragement, here’s how to design a reading plan that actually works:
1. Choose the Right Books (Not Just the Right Level): Let your child explore high-interest, age-appropriate books that align with their passions—graphic novels, audiobooks, and adventure stories all count!
PRO TIP: Use this Lexile Tool to match books to your child’s reading level and interests.
2. Schedule Short, Consistent Reading Times for Struggling Readers: Set aside 15–30 minutes a day, ideally when your child is most alert. Use a visual timer, set a cozy reading spot, and avoid distractions.
3. Incorporate Audiobooks and Read-Alongs: Audiobooks are not cheating! They build vocabulary, comprehension, and confidence. Check out free audiobooks from your local Arizona library system.
4. Use Incentives and Goal Charts: Create a reading bingo board, sticker chart, or token system to celebrate small milestones. Tie goals to fun activities or screen time.
5. Join Local or Online Reading Challenges: Programs like the Read On Arizona Summer Reading Challenge or your local library’s summer reading club provide structure and community. Find Read On Arizona resources here.
6. Mix Reading with Real-Life Activities: Have your child read a recipe, comic strip, or directions for a game. These “functional reading” tasks reduce pressure while building skills naturally.
Supporting Struggling Readers with Dyslexia and ADHD
Children with dyslexia may benefit from:
- Multisensory learning programs like Orton-Gillingham
- Decodable readers tailored for struggling readers
- Extra processing time and repetition
Children with ADHD benefit from:
- Frequent breaks and movement
- Chunked reading sessions
- Positive reinforcement and nonjudgmental feedback
For both, one-on-one reading support and behavioral coaching are often key. At Rockwood Prep, we integrate these strategies into our curriculum to make literacy success a reachable goal.
Let’s Help Your Child Fall in Love with Reading Again
At Rockwood Prep, we specialize in serving students with learning differences through parent support and ABA therapy integration for behavioral and academic success. We also incorporate reading interventions backed by research and social-emotional learning to build confidence in a warm, supportive environment tailored to how each child learns best.
Whether your child has an official diagnosis or is just beginning to struggle, we’re here to walk with your family—through the summer and beyond. To see how we create success, one student at a time, schedule a tour of our school here!
