Tips for a Successful Summer!

☀️ Summertime is here!☀️

For some families, summer can mean a tough transition from a familiar routine, regular classroom support and/or therapies and social circles to a more variable schedule with less frequent supports or access to your regular village.

As we enter into the summer months here are 3️⃣ ways you can help to make your family’s summer smooth and successful.

1️⃣ Adjust your expectations

Summer is never going to feel as organized or structured as the school year (and it doesn’t have to!). While maintaining some routines is necessary, adjusting your expectations of yourself and your child can help to reduce unnecessary stress.

☀️It’s ok to work on fewer goals.

☀️It’s ok to take time off from therapies for a family trip

☀️It’s ok to have days with a slower pace, more screen time or more sleep.

☀️It’s ok if there are some really hard days of adjustment. Tomorrow is a new day.

Do our kids need consistency? Of course. But they also need (and crave) a break just like we do.

Children with special needs work harder than ANYONE and giving them time “off” to do more of what brings them joy is a necessity.

2️⃣ Find your summer village.

While school staff, friends and activity members might not be available during the summer, you can lean on family and friends who are able to provide support and respite during the changing summer schedules.

Don’t have a village? Let us help with that! There are so many virtual and in person support groups for families navigating special needs in the Katy/Houston area and beyond. We would love to connect you!

3️⃣ When all else fails, OUTSIDE or WATER

Shifted schedules and out of the ordinary routines can lead to stress, outbursts and dysregulation for autistic individuals. Be prepared that these behaviors will most likely occur more often. In times of dysregulation, spending time outside or in water play can be a game changer (sprinklers, inflatable water slide, slip n slide, bathtub, pool - only if monitored properly). Allow time for unstructured play, longer than normal bath times or extra minutes on a hyper fixation interest.

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If you are struggling with certain behaviors, routines or therapies, we would love to connect with you! Shine offers individualized family consultations that can include behavior plans/systems to implement at home, talking through individual therapy options and more! You’re never alone.https://www.shinebehaviorservices.com/book-online