Change in routine is difficult for kids who are autistic. Try these steps to summertime fun.
The birds are singing through the open windows. Flowers are blooming, and kids are playing outside. While this may be true of many kids, the change in season can be difficult for kids on the autism spectrum. As the end of school approaches, try these ideas to help your child transition into a new schedule that works.
- Will the child attend Extended School Year? School districts offer summer programs for children who loose significant skills (and cannot recoup them after a designated period of time) after long breaks from school.
- Consider an extracurricular activity. Some activities are appealing to children on the autism spectrum because they offer built-in routine. Swimming laps at a time of day when the pool is not crowded is one.
- Develop an at-home schedule for the summer. Sometimes summer seems like a time to pitch the family routine. However, without the structure of school, kids can easily become overwhelmed. An at-home schedule does not mean that you have to get up at the same time as during the school year, but it does mean that the wake schedule should be close to the same everyday.
- Decide on a schedule for other parts of the day as well. Meals, bath, and bedtime need a specific summer routine.
- Consider what chores the child will be responsible for this summer. Will there be additional ones because school is out? Will there be a new task to learn given the extra time?
- Will the family take a vacation? If so, consider where and whether or not the child is familiar with the destination. In preparation, travel guides and pictures on the Internet can assist in discussion beforehand.
- Plan some opportunities for socialization. This can take place by inviting school friends to play or by joining an activity (as mentioned above).
- Consider the activities, needs, and wants of siblings. This does not mean that siblings rate before the child who is autistic. It means that it is important to plan summer activities, fun, and downtime for every family member.
- Plan breaks (or respite care) for parents. Summer can be long without the routine of school. It can also be long without breaks. Having the opportunity to do parent-things can make overall family time more enjoyable. Parents should have break time together and separately.
The sooner that a summer schedule is considered, the sooner that everyone will start to plan – or at least become accustomed to the idea. Having a schedule that works is critical to every season.
The copyright of the article Summer Schedules that Work in Autistic Child Parenting is owned by Lynn Moore. Permission to republish Summer Schedules that Work in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.
