Summertime and Your Child With Autism

Summer is an exciting time for many families, as it offers children a break from school and a slowdown in the schedule. However, as individuals with autism thrive on structure and routine, summer can often bring its own set of challenges.

Wondering how you can make the transition to summer more smooth for you and your child with autism? Here are our best tips to help make this time easier for everyone involved.

Start the Discussion Early

One of the best things you can do with any upcoming changes is to start talking about them well in advance. Start a summer countdown, and begin discussing summer plans and changes that will be made to your child’s routine. If your child knows what to expect, that will make for an easier adjustment for them.

Set Clear Expectations

In addition to having discussions well in advance, take some time to make your expectations clear. Stress the need for rules and routine. Perhaps let your child know which specific positive behaviors you will be looking for in the summer, and then reinforce those behaviors as you see them.

Plan and Prepare

Take time to consider your child’s needs, and plan ahead accordingly for outings or events. For example, if your child has specific sensory needs, keep these in mind when preparing for trips to certain places over the summer.

Use Social Stories

The use of the narratives can be helpful for teaching social norms and appropriate behaviors to a child with autism, especially in advance of a new experience.

Establish and Maintain Routine

When setting up your child’s summer routine, consider using visuals to help remind them what to expect. You may even use alarms or timers to keep your child’s day on track. Stick to the schedule as much as possible, but be flexible, and discuss alternate plans in advance of any potential departure from the routine.

With a little forethought and sticktoitiveness on your part, your child with autism may have their best summer yet! 

Positive Reinforcement offers ABA Services in North Virginia, West Virginia and in home ABA therapy in Somerset Kentucky.