Summer survival tips

Ah, summer – when the days stretch long and the kids are home, ready for adventure. Or maybe not. For many parents, this is a time to juggle sunscreen, snacks, sanity – and screen time!

For those of us with neurodiverse kiddos, it requires an extra sprinkle of creativity and patience. Each day can offer a mix of mayhem and, let’s be honest, meltdowns.

But fear not; with some clever planning, sterling patience – and a sense of humour, we can keep the fun rolling.

Let’s explore how to make the most of this season while respecting our children’s individual needs, without losing our cool.

Embrace uniqueness

Every neurodiverse child has their own set of strengths and challenges. It’s crucial to recognise and celebrate these differences, especially during the less structured summer holidays.

For some kids, the change in routine can be unsettling. They might need extra support to adjust to the new rhythm of summer days. Others might thrive with the freedom from school schedules.

Remember, there’s no one-size-fits-all approach. What works for one child might not work for another. The key is to stay flexible and as you figure out what suits your family best.

Navigate social situations

Summer often brings increased social interactions, which can be both exciting and overwhelming for neurodiverse children.

Beach trips, barbecues, and family gatherings can present challenges. Some kids might struggle with sensory overload from crowds, noise, or unfamiliar environments. Others might find it hard to engage in social play or conversation.

To help your child navigate these:

– Prepare them in advance for what to expect
– Create a signal system for when they need a break
– Bring comfort items such as earplugs or noise-canceling headphones if needed
– Practice social scripts for common interactions

Remember, it’s okay to leave early or skip events if your kiddo’s finding it too overwhelming.

Plan for the worst, hope for the best

A little preparation can go a long way in ensuring a smooth summer for neurodiverse families. Let’s look at some strategies to set everyone up for success.

Create a flexible schedule

Structure can provide comfort for many neurodiverse children, even during the relaxed summer holidays. However, flexibility is key to enjoying the season fully.

Start by creating a loose daily routine. This should include wake-up times, regular meal times, and bedtimes that follow more or less the same pattern as always.

Visual schedules can be helpful. Use a whiteboard or chart to outline the day’s activities. This gives your child a sense of what to expect without being too rigid.

Remember to build in transition times. Many neurodiverse kids need extra time to switch between activities. A 10-minute warning before changing tasks can make a big difference. Leave room for spontaneity and fun as well!

Packing essentials

– Sensory items (stress balls, fidget toys) check out my sensory shop!
Comfort objects- a small, portable weighted blanket can bring relief in a meltdown situation)
– Snacks and water (obvs- but keep them low in sugar- I like “suckies” for probiotics and ease of use
– Sunscreen and hat (I find Garnier sensitive factor 30 scores well on Yuka for nasties. It’s clear, lightweight, spray and doesn’t come out “cold”, at a reasonable price.)
– Change of clothes (look for label-free and bamboo clothes for super sensitive skin!)
– Favourite small toys or books

Being prepared can turn potential meltdowns into memorable moments. Create a “summer fun kit” tailored to your child’s needs and interests.

Keep this kit easily accessible, whether you’re heading to the park or just hanging out in the backyard. It’s your secret weapon for turning tricky situations around.

Engaging activities

Finding activities that cater to your child’s interests while also challenging them just enough can be a balancing act. The key is variety and adaptability.

For sensory seekers, consider water play, sandbox activities, or homemade slime. For those who prefer quieter pursuits, try nature scavenger hunts, building projects, or art activities. Check out my shop for some ideas!

Don’t forget about learning opportunities. Summer is a great time for interest-led learning. If your child is fascinated by dinosaurs, visit a natural history museum. If they love space, try stargazing nights. For the train-obsessed (like my son was aged four!) find your local steam railway! 🚂

Remember, the goal is engagement, not perfection. If an activity isn’t working, it’s okay to switch gears. The most important thing is that everyone’s having fun. That means you too 💕

Managing meltdowns 🤯

Even with the best planning, meltdowns can happen. The key is to handle them with grace and understanding.

First, try to identify triggers. Is it hunger, tiredness, or sensory overload? Keeping a simple log can help you spot patterns.

When a meltdown occurs:

– Stay calm and speak softly
– Move to a quieter space if possible
– Offer comfort items or deep pressure if your child responds well to these (remember those weighted blankets!)
-Wait it out – don’t try to reason during the height of emotions

After the storm has passed, give lots of love and reassurance. Remember, meltdowns are often more distressing for your child than for you.

Balancing rest and excitement

Summer is a time for adventure and relaxation. Finding the right balance is crucial for neurodiverse families.

Know when to slow down

Recognising the signs of overwhelm in your child (and yourself!) is crucial for a happy summer. Every child has different limits, and these can change day to day.

Watch for signs like increased irritability, withdrawal, or repetitive behaviors. These might indicate that it’s time for a break.

Don’t be afraid to say no to invitations or cut outings short if needed. Sometimes, a quiet day at home is exactly what everyone needs to recharge.

Remember, downtime isn’t wasted time. It’s essential for processing experiences and regulating emotions. That means you too Mama! If you can, give the kids 45 minutes of screen time while you shut the door, lie down and close your eyes.

You need a sensory break too. I find this accupressure mat really helps me drift off for ten minutes, enough to replenish me for an afternoon’s adventure!

Explore nature together

Nature can be a wonderful (and free!) source of calm and discovery for neurodiverse children. It offers sensory experiences without the overwhelm of crowded, noisy spaces.

Try these nature-based activities:

– Nature walks with a focus on textures or colours
– Backyard camping or making a den or mud kitchen
– Cloud watching and shape finding
– Simple gardening projects

These simple activities can be easily adapted to your child’s interests and sensory preferences. They also offer opportunities for quiet connection and shared wonder.

Lean on your social network

No parent is an island, especially when navigating the unique joys and challenges of raising a neurodiverse child. Finding other parents who “get it” can be incredibly validating and helpful. Look for local support groups or online communities focused on neurodiversity. Dr

Don’t be shy about getting in touch . Many parents are eager to connect and share their experiences. Your experiences are valuable. By sharing your stories and strategies, you not only help others but also gain new perspectives.

If you need paid-for advice on parenting challenges over the summer, feel free to get in touch Reprobatemum@reprobatemum.com, or follow me on Facebook, insta, Twitter and YouTube @reprobatemum

Regular readers, fear not! This experiment in AI content is designed to provide helpful advice to my fellow neurospicy parents navigating their own neurodiversity journey. And direct traffic to my newly launched “feel better” shop

It will not replace my usual tangential rants, social observations, weirdly accurate connections and general introspection.

You’re welcome 😉