As the school year comes to an end, families with children on the autism spectrum may be faced with the challenge of keeping a consistent routine and structure during the summer months. At the Autism Center of Sauk Valley, we understand the importance of maintaining structure for children with autism and want to share some parenting hacks to help you support your child during the summer break.
Create a Schedule
Routine and structure can help your child thrive. Creating a schedule for the summer months can help maintain that consistency. The schedule should include regular wake-up times, meal times, therapy sessions, and leisure activities. Displaying the schedule visually can also be helpful for children who benefit from visual aids.
Set Goals
Setting goals for the summer can help children with autism work towards achieving specific milestones. The goals should be age-appropriate and tailored to the child's individual needs. Examples of goals could include improving social skills, developing language skills, or working on fine motor skills.
Maintain Therapy Sessions
ABA therapy is a critical component of a child's development, and it is essential to continue therapy sessions during the summer months. At the Autism Center of Sauk Valley, we offer summer therapy programs to help children maintain progress and work towards their goals. It is important to communicate with your child's therapist and develop a plan for the summer months.
Engage in Leisure Activities
Summer break is a great opportunity to engage in leisure activities that can also promote learning and development. Activities such as swimming, hiking, and playing outdoors can help improve gross motor skills and promote physical activity. Additionally, board games, puzzles, and arts and crafts can help with cognitive development and fine motor skills.
Practice Self-Care
Taking care of yourself is just as important as taking care of your child. Caring for a child with autism can be stressful, and it is essential to take breaks and practice self-care. Engaging in activities that promote relaxation, such as deep breaths or stretching, can help reduce stress levels and improve overall well-being.
At the Autism Center of Sauk Valley, we understand the challenges that families with children on the autism spectrum face during the summer months. By maintaining structure, setting goals, continuing therapy, engaging in leisure activities, and practicing self-care, parents can support their child's development and make the summer months a fun and enriching experience for the whole family.
Disclaimer: this post does not contain treatment recommendations as a professional relationship has not been established. For children whom the Autism Center has not directly observed, there is not enough information to make any specific treatment recommendation as treatment recommendations would be based on a subjective report of the child’s behavior. Please contact us if you have any questions.
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