Summer is a wonderful time of year full of outdoor activities and social gatherings, but for those with Autism Spectrum Disorder it can be stressful. Changes in routines, travel to new places, different sensory experiences, and time spent with people who may not fully understand autism can make summer feel overwhelming. Here are some tips for navigating the hustle and bustle of summer and make it less stressful and more enjoyable for everyone.
The power of routines
Routines are important for people with ASD. Summer can be very disruptive and so it is helpful to build routines into your summer days. If your child is school age, consider the academic skills you want to keep fresh over the summer months and incorporate those into your routine. Also include in your routine time for the daily-living and independence-building skills you want to develop.
Visual supports
Using visual supports can help you and your child prepare for summer activities and plans. Create a calendar showing upcoming activities and events. Review this with your child to help them prepare for what’s ahead. Make a visual schedule for each day that will help build a sense of routine and make your child feel more comfortable with summer days that may not all look the same. Check out the Fourth of July schedule below as an example of what a schedule might look like.
Taking it on the road
Whether planning a day trip or longer travel, the following tips can make a difference in the experience you and your child have:
- Visualize exactly what you will be doing with your autistic child. Consider situations that may entice or present a challenge. These may include sensory concerns (noises, visuals, smells), boundaries or lack thereof, temptations or distractions. Consider your child’s interests when planning the trip and its activities to encourage engagement, excitement, and sense of inclusion.
- Call ahead to the places you will be visiting to get as much information as possible so you know what challenges may arise and can be prepared.
- If your trip includes family and friends, communicate with them ahead of time and explain your child’s needs. Let them know if you will be bringing any special foods or equipment to help your child feel comfortable.
- Have accessible/make portable any tools or supplies necessary to assist you in making the experience a smooth one, like written schedules, calming tools, snacks, changes of clothes, medications, etc.
- Have an emergency plan. Know how you will communicate your child’s needs to anyone who may assist? How will someone identify your child? (Carry a picture of your child.)
- Use written social narratives/scenarios to help your child visualize new social situations or activities and how to handle them.
Sample Fourth of July schedule
7:30 a.m.
- Wake up
- Breakfast
- Get dressed
- Choice time
11:00 a.m.
- Car to Granddad and Grandma’s house
- Lunch
- Play outside / water fight with cousins
- Video
5:00 p.m.
- Cook out dinner
7:00 p.m.
- Car to park
9:00 p.m.
- Fireworks
- Car to home
Sample social scenario: Watching firework
On the Fourth of July, many people like to see fireworks. My family goes to Granddad and Grandma’s house to see fireworks. We ride in the car to the park and wait for it to get dark. When it gets dark the fireworks begin. The fireworks have bright lights and loud sounds. I like the bright lights but sometimes I do not like the loud sounds. If the loud sounds bother me, I can put on my headphones. It is okay to not like the loud sounds but using my headphones makes the loud sounds quiet and I can try to watch the pretty lights.
Additional resources
Blog: A Journey with Autism: Exploring Italy Through My Son’s Eyes
Blog: Running the Autism Marathon: You Don’t Have to Go It Alone
Social Narratives: Social narratives are simple stories that focus the individual’s attention on only the key details of a situation and can support understanding and performance. It is important to adjust the number and complexity of details to meet the needs of the individual. Click here for our Social Narratives webpage.
Support Groups: ASNC Support Groups can be found in locations around the state. They provide a welcoming and supportive place for families impacted by autism to build community through regular activities and outings. To find a Support Group near you, click here.
Tags: autism, Autism spectrum, Parent Advocates, Parenting children with autism, summer