School’s out for the summer - the 1972 song still to this day conveys the same chaotic excitement of summertime freedom! But what do we do when it feels like school’s out FOREVER?! As a parent to little ones, we want to give them a summer they will remember for a lifetime, but still promote structure in their daily routines. How do we strike that balance?
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Start Small
Aim for one planned activity per day! This allows for the structure to be built around their typical daily routine while making memories of “the best summer ever!” What types of planned activities do you want your child to engage in, and what skills can you embed in the activities?
Some ideas: Writing letters in shaving cream (literacy) Cutting out magazine photos for a collage (fine motor and artistic skills) Helping mom bake some cookies (following directions, measuring, waiting) Writing postcards to friends (social and writing skills).
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Visual Schedules
Is transitioning your little one away from their favorite toy or tablet a battle you lose every time? Try a visual schedule to help them keep track of daily expectations! A visual schedule is a simple plan for the day that your child can follow along with, posted somewhere visible to them in the home. Identify what your kiddo’s day will look like. As your child completes scheduled activities, add a checkmark beside the item. This allows your child to be able to anticipate what is next. Just how adults cross off their to-do lists! Sample schedule:
Breakfast: Waffles
Play with sister outside
Grocery store
Lunch: PBJ
Storytime with stuffed animals
Chores
Dinner: Spaghetti
Move night + Family time
Bedtime Routine
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Making the Schedule
Start with that task you want your son or daughter to get done, usually something a little less preferred (working on academic skills, chores, etc.).
Be strategic. If you know that your child has a hard time terminating a fun activity, plan ahead by following it up with something also somewhat preferred before moving on to less preferred activities, such as chores.
Give reminders. “Five more minutes before the next activity!”
Give ownership. Allow your child to assist in checking the schedule and marking off completed activities.
Give choices. Wherever possible, give choices at the start of the day when making the schedule.
Use “First ___, Then ____.” Before presenting nonpreferred activities. For example, “First chores, then, tablet time!” And make sure to follow through!
About Autism 360: The mission is to enhance autism treatment, education, and hope for all children through our wrap-around-care model. Our goal is to prepare children with autism to excel in school, community, and home-based settings. At Autism 360 each child and family will have the tools and support they need to reach their fullest potential. For more information visit their website or call (704) 529-9090
