Supporting Your Child During the Holiday Season: Preventing Academic Regression & Strengthening Skills

The holiday season brings a much-needed pause from school routines—time for rest, family traditions, and connection. But while the break is beneficial emotionally, it can also be a period when academic skills slip. This is especially true for students who already struggle with reading, writing, attention, or executive functioning.

At Whole Mind Psychological & Educational Services, we encourage families to use this time intentionally—not by turning the break into “school,” but by understanding your child’s learning strengths and challenges so the time off becomes an opportunity for quiet growth rather than regression.

Why Academic Regression Happens Over Break

Even short breaks from structured learning can impact:

• Reading fluency and comprehension

• Math fact retention

• Writing stamina

• Attention and processing speed

• Organization and executive functioning skills

For students who need extra support during the school year, even a two-week interruption can make January feel like starting over.

How Understanding Your Child’s Learning Profile Helps

Every child learns differently. When families understand a child’s:

• Cognitive strengths

• Academic weaknesses

• Learning style

• Processing patterns

• Social-emotional factors

…they’re better equipped to support them—during breaks and throughout the school year.

Simple, Low-Stress Ways to Support Learning Over the Holiday Break

Here are gentle, practical options (no worksheets required):

⭐ For Reading

• Read together for 10–15 minutes a day

• Alternate pages with your child to reduce frustration

• Listen to audiobooks to strengthen comprehension

⭐ For Writing

• Keep a short holiday journal

• Write cards to family members

• Make lists together (packing, cooking, activities)

⭐ For Math

• Cook together and measure ingredients

• Play board games involving counting or strategy

• Practice math facts through quick, fun apps

⭐ For Executive Functioning

• Give your child one small daily responsibility

• Use visual checklists for routines

• Set up a predictable daily holiday schedule

Is This a Good Time for a Psychoeducational Evaluation?

The holiday season is actually one of the best times to schedule an evaluation because:

• Students are less fatigued

• Families have more flexibility

• Results can guide support plans for the new school semester

• You can enter January with a clear understanding of what your child needs

--> If your child is showing signs of academic frustration, increased homework stress, difficulty learning new skills, or inconsistent school performance, an evaluation can provide clarity and direction.

We’re Here to Support Your Child’s Growth

At Whole Mind Psychological & Educational Services, we specialize in comprehensive, compassionate evaluations for children and adolescents. Our goal is to help families understand why a child may be struggling and what tools will genuinely help them thrive.

If you would like guidance on how to support your child during the holiday season—or if you’re considering an evaluation—please reach out. We are here to help you make this break restorative, intentional, and supportive of your child’s long-term success.

🌐 Learn More: wholemindpsychservices.com