Autism Friendly Summer Activities: Fun Ideas for Autistic Children

Congratulations. You’ve made it through another school year! Let the summer fun begin. PediaPlex understands that summer break can be challenging for kiddos on the autism spectrum as breaking away from their routine and pace can sometimes be difficult. Many children with autism may face unique challenges during summer break, including disruptions in routine, changes in the environment, sensory overload, social isolation, and limited access to therapy and support.

Understanding Autism and Summer Needs

Summer can be a challenging time for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). The break from school routines, changes in the environment, and limited access to occupational therapy and support can make the summer months difficult for families of children with autism. Understanding the unique needs of children with autism during summer break is crucial to creating a fun and supportive environment.

Children with autism may face unique challenges during summer break, including disruptions in routine, changes in the environment, sensory overload, social isolation, and limited access to therapy and support. By understanding these challenges, parents and caregivers can better prepare and plan for a successful summer.

Sensory Play and Exploration

Sensory play and exploration are essential for children with autism, as they provide opportunities for sensory integration and regulation. Sensory play can help children with autism develop their senses, including touch, taste, smell, hearing, and sight.

Some fun summer sensory play ideas include:

Nature walks: Explore the outdoors and collect items from nature, such as leaves, rocks, and flowers. This not only engages their senses but also provides a calming experience.
Sensory bins: Create a bin filled with rice, beans, or sand and hide small toys or other objects for children to find and explore. This activity can be both soothing and stimulating.
Water play: Engage in water-based activities, such as splashing in a pool or playing with a water table. Water play is a fantastic way to cool down and have fun while stimulating the senses.
Art therapy: Use art supplies, such as paint, markers, and crayons, to create and express themselves. Art therapy can be a powerful tool for self-expression and sensory exploration.

Developing Fine Motor Skills

Fine motor skills are essential for children with autism, as they help with daily living activities, such as dressing, feeding, and using the bathroom. Summer is a great time to practice and develop fine motor skills through fun and engaging activities.

Some fun summer fine motor skill activities include:

Playdough: Make homemade playdough using flour, water, and food coloring, and engage in activities, such as rolling, squeezing, and shaping. This helps strengthen hand muscles and improve dexterity.
Arts and crafts: Engage in activities, such as painting, drawing, and coloring, to develop fine motor skills and creativity. These activities are not only fun but also enhance hand-eye coordination.
Mini golf: Play mini golf to practice hand-eye coordination and fine motor skills. This activity is enjoyable and provides a great opportunity for family bonding.
Cooking and baking: Engage in cooking and baking activities, such as measuring ingredients and mixing batter, to develop fine motor skills and independence. These activities also teach valuable life skills.

Communication Skills Development

Communication skills are essential for children with autism, as they help with social interaction and daily living activities. Summer is a great time to practice and develop communication skills through fun and engaging activities.

Some fun summer communication skill activities include:

Social skills groups: Join a social skills group to practice social interaction and communication skills with peers. These groups provide a supportive environment for children to learn and grow.
Role-playing: Engage in role-playing activities, such as pretend play, to practice communication skills and social interaction. This can be a fun way to explore different scenarios and develop language skills.
Storytelling: Engage in storytelling activities, such as reading books and creating stories, to develop communication skills and creativity. Storytelling encourages imagination and verbal expression.
Local library: Visit the local library to practice communication skills and engage in activities, such as reading and storytelling. Libraries often offer programs and events that can benefit children with autism.

2019 Fun Summer Activities for Children with Autism

Congratulations. You’ve made it through another school year! Let the summer fun begin. PediaPlex understands that summer break can be challenging for kiddos on the autism spectrum as breaking away from their routine and pace can sometimes trigger behavioral changes. The DFW metroplex is offering many sensory-friendly ways this summer to help keep our ASD kiddos active. Here are a few fun summer activities for autistic children in the month of June:

June 8tH– C.A.S.T for Kids Fishing Event:
Weatherford, TX
This is a C.A.S.T. for Kids event designed to provide children with disabilities, ages 5 – 17, the opportunity to enjoy a quality outdoor recreational experience through the sport of fishing. Take to the water with C.A.S.T. for an unforgettable morning of fishing and boating!
REGISTER HERE
June 16th- Sensory Sunday’s at Crayola Experience:
Plano, TX
Bigger, brighter and bolder than ever, the colorful adventures of Crayola Experience help kids and adults alike explore art and technology, express their creativity and experience color in a whole new way.
REGISTER HERE
June 22nd– Dallas Children’s Theater Performance of ‘Diary of a Worm, a Spider, & a Fly’:
Dallas, TX
The coolest ever rock-n-roll romp through a bug’s world commands center stage in this hip-hoppin’ musical that promotes eco-consciousness, earth science, and tolerance of others.
PURCHASE TICKETS
Various Dates in June – Champion’s Day at Hawaiian Falls
June 8 (Mansfield), June 15 (Roanoke), June 22 (Garland & Waco, June 29 (The Colony)
A special time for our Champions (individuals with special needs) and their family/friends to enjoy the park all to themselves without the noise and lines.
FREE for Champions and $10 companion tickets (max 4 per Champion)
PURCHSE TICKETS
June 30th – Autism-Friendly Summer Camp: Various Locations
These camps provide structured environments and a variety of activities including swimming, arts and crafts, and sports, aimed at enhancing social skills and offering therapeutic support.

Planning an Autism-Friendly Summer Vacation

Planning an autism-friendly summer vacation requires careful consideration and preparation. Here are some tips to help create a successful and enjoyable vacation:

Research and plan: Research and plan activities and destinations that are autism-friendly and suitable for your child’s needs and interests. Look for places that offer sensory-friendly accommodations and activities.
Controlled environment: Create a controlled environment that is comfortable and familiar for your child, such as bringing familiar toys and blankets. This can help reduce anxiety and make the vacation more enjoyable.
Occupational therapy: Consider bringing an occupational therapist or seeking out local occupational therapy services to provide support and guidance during the vacation. This can help maintain routines and provide necessary support.
Local groups: Join local groups and organizations that provide support and resources for families of children with autism. Connecting with other families can offer valuable insights and support.
Life skills: Practice life skills, such as packing and unpacking, to help your child develop independence and self-reliance. Involving your child in the planning process can also make them feel more comfortable and excited about the trip.

By following these tips and being mindful of your child’s unique needs and interests, you can create a fun and supportive summer vacation that benefits your child with autism.

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