Keep Learning Going: Why Assistive Tech is essential over the summer

For many students, summer break is a time to relax and recharge. But for students with disabilities, that long break from school can come at a cost. Research has shown that students often experience a “summer slide” — a significant loss of academic progress over the summer months. And for those who already face barriers to learning, the impact can be even greater.

That’s why continuing to use assistive technology during the summer is more than just a good idea — it’s essential.

What is the Summer Slide?

The term “summer slide” refers to the learning loss that happens when students are out of school for extended periods. In her groundbreaking study, researcher Barbara Heyns found that most students gain academically during the school year, but then either stagnate or lose ground over the summer, particularly in reading and math.

This loss is especially steep for students from low-income backgrounds and for those with learning disabilities, who often require consistent access to specialized tools and support to stay on track.

Why students with disabilities are more at risk

Students with IEPs, 504 plans, or other learning accommodations typically receive structured, daily support during the school year through resource rooms, therapists, modified instruction, and assistive technology. When summer arrives, much of that support disappears.

Without regular reinforcement, students with learning or physical differences can:

• Lose key academic skills (especially in math and reading)

• Fall behind in executive functioning or organization

• Experience a drop in confidence and motivation

• Struggle more when the new school year begins

But there's good news: assistive technology can help bridge that gap — and it’s available right from home.

How Assistive Technology can help over the summer

Assistive technology tools like Modmath provide students with the opportunity to maintain skills, build independence, and stay engaged in learning, even without a full classroom setup. According to the Association of Special Education Administrators, assistive technology plays a vital role in helping students with disabilities:

• Stay consistent with their routines and learning goals

• Maintain access to curriculum content in a way that works for them

• Increase independence by letting them work without constant support

• Prevent regression, which can be especially difficult to recover from
  

Whether it’s using speech-to-text apps, screen readers, or visual math tools like Modmath, assistive technology enables students to keep learning in ways that are meaningful and accessible to them.

For example, just a few minutes of structured math practice each day using Modmath can help students retain critical math concepts — and feel more confident heading into the fall.

Using assistive tech during the summer doesn’t have to look like full-on school. It can be as simple as practicing math problems on Modmath while waiting for dinner. The key is consistency and using the tools your child already knows (or might enjoy trying).

Summer learning loss is real, but it’s also preventable — especially when we give students the right tools to stay engaged. Assistive technology like Modmath isn’t just for the school year. It’s a year-round support system that helps students stay connected to learning, build skills, and grow confidence. 

Modmath is free to download on iPads, MacBooks, Chromebooks, and Android tablets. Now’s the perfect time to explore how assistive tech can make a difference — before the next school year begins.