Summer Learning Loss Hits Harder for Kids with Undiagnosed Learning Disabilities

Summer academic drop-off can significantly impact children with learning disabilities—especially those who remain undiagnosed. Learn how early evaluation and summer support can make a lasting difference.

Understanding Summer Learning Loss—And Who It Affects Most

As the school year winds down, most children (and parents) look forward to a well-deserved summer break. But for many students—particularly those with undiagnosed learning disabilities—summer isn’t just a vacation from school. It can also lead to a significant regression in academic skills, a phenomenon commonly known as the “summer slide.”

While all students are at risk of summer learning loss, children with learning challenges are especially vulnerable. For these students, time away from structured learning environments can mean falling further behind in reading, writing, math, and executive functioning skills. This can lead to increased frustration and anxiety once the new school year begins—especially if their learning differences have not yet been identified or supported.

Why Undiagnosed Learning Disabilities Make Summer Slide Worse

Many children with learning disabilities—such as dyslexia, ADHD, or processing disorders—struggle to keep pace even during the school year. When summer break removes the scaffolding of routine instruction and support, the gap between them and their peers can widen significantly.

In fact, children with undiagnosed learning issues often:

• Experience increased academic delays each summer

• Become more discouraged and avoidant of learning tasks

• Miss critical windows for early intervention and support

Unfortunately, many of these children don’t get identified until well into their school careers—often after years of avoidable academic and emotional stress.

Summer: A Critical Window for Evaluation and Intervention

The good news? Summer can also be the best time to identify and support children with learning differences.

A comprehensive neuropsychological evaluation during the summer months provides essential insight into a child’s learning profile—highlighting both strengths and areas of difficulty. This allows parents and educators to implement evidence-based interventions, accommodations, and tools before the academic year begins.

At Grow Neuropsychology, we specialize in helping families understand the root of their child’s struggles—whether it's reading comprehension, math fluency, attention, memory, or executive functioning. Early identification leads to early support, which can change the trajectory of a child’s educational experience.

Benefits of a Summer Pediatric Neuropsychological Evaluation

Choosing to schedule a private evaluation over the summer means your child can:

• Begin the school year with a clear support plan in place

• Receive personalized recommendations tailored to their needs

• Avoid long waitlists often associated with school-based testing

• Access accommodations and services sooner

We help families uncover hidden learning challenges and create actionable plans that help children thrive.

Don't Wait for Fall—Start Strong with a Summer Evaluation

If your child has been struggling in school or if you suspect a learning difference, now is the time to act. A summer evaluation ensures your child is not only ready for the next grade, but also supported in a way that matches their unique learning style.

📍Located in Land O’ Lakes, FL, Grow Pediatric Neuropsychology offers timely, comprehensive evaluations without the long delays often seen in the school system.

Visit www.GrowNeuropsychology.com or call (813) 492-7319 to schedule a consultation.