What Is Occupational Therapy and How Can it Help My Autistic Child?
Occupational therapy gives children with autism the tools and support to develop their abilities. The skills they develop enable them to live fuller, richer lives.
Avoiding Spring Break Setbacks
While spring break is a time of celebration for many kids because it means a week off school, it can be a time of both joy and dread for parents – especially those with special needs children who thrive on routine and structure. Time off school and away from a familiar routine can be tough on children with special needs; this is because it is something out of the ordinary. It is unpredictable. This can, in turn, lead to the emergence of undesirable behaviors.
Tips for Planning for Spring Break
Whether your family is going somewhere on vacation or just relaxing at home, here a few ways to make things more enjoyable for everyone and help keep your children on track:
- Stick to a routine: If your child always goes to bed at 8 p.m. and wakes up at 6 a.m., try to keep this same schedule throughout break. Not only will this help with consistency, it also makes it easier to transition back to their normal schedule once school resumes. Keeping evening routines the same as well can also help. While this is not always easy or convenient, maintaining as much familiar routine as possible can be beneficial.
- Give advanced notice: Your child’s schedule will already be unbalanced because they are not in school, so try to prepare them ahead of time for the day’s events so they know what to expect. Let them know about activities you have planned and how you anticipate things happening. If things change, try to give them as much forewarning as possible.
- Plan fun activities: What are some of your child’s favorite things to do? If they love going to the park, the museum or a special store, make arrangements to do these things. Come up with activities that keep them entertained, learning and practicing skills they have been working on in school and therapy.
- Uphold expectations: You may have to be a little flexible depending on the situation, but let your child know that your expectations for their behavior is still the same as always, regardless of whether they’re in school. The same rewards and consequences still apply.
Spring break can be a time of fun and relaxation if you plan ahead and are prepared to deal with whatever comes your way. For more strategies on managing your child’s needs and behavior during spring break, contact the team at PediaPlex.
Share with us some of your own tips for spring break and how you avoid setbacks!
Start your child's journey today.
817.442.0222
You Might Also Enjoy...
5 Benefits of Behavioral Analysis
Behavior analysis strategies are beneficial in helping children with development challenges learn new skills and boost their quality of life. Talk to a specialist to learn how behavior analysis can support your child.
In the Technology Age, Handwriting Is Still an Important Skill
In an era dominated by digital devices, handwriting remains a crucial skill for children. While keyboards and touchscreens are helpful, handwriting benefits offer unique advantages in child development.
What Should I Look For If I Suspect My Child Has Autism?
Today, there is tremendous support available to guide families with children on the autism spectrum. Learning the signs and observing your child helps determine whether you should seek an evaluation.
What is ABA Therapy and Is My Child Eligible?
Unlocking potential and fostering growth, applied behavior analysis (ABA) therapy helps children with developmental challenges. As a scientifically validated approach, ABA therapy offers a path to personal development and improved skills.
Will My Child Grow Out of Stuttering?
Getting your child the right help early on can make a difference in reducing their stuttering. Speech therapy can help your child speak more fluently, and feel confident speaking in different situations.