The summer holidays can be a challenging period for children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). The break from the structured school environment and the disruption to a regular routine isn’t always easy. In this blog, we share our tips and guidance on how to navigate the summer holidays and make the most of the time away from school.
Did you know that 1 in 3 people with a learning disability spend less than 1 hour outside their home on a typical Saturday. Whether it’s a picnic in the park, taking trips out, or any other activities that gets them exploring and experiencing the world around them, it’s important to get out and about.
Maintain a Routine
While the summer break naturally brings some disruption and a change of the usual routine, maintaining some consistence can help minimise stress and anxiety. Keeping to regular mealtimes, bedtimes, and activity schedules can help to regulate some of that structure back into the day.
Tip: Why not create a visual schedule for the week ahead, this can help them understand what to expect and feel more settled and structured.
Plan Activities in Advance
Planning activities ahead of time can prevent that last-minute stress and allow that time to really make the most of it. There are some local activities and events that cater to children with SEND, offering inclusive programs and sensory-friendly events throughout the summer. You don’t have to restrict yourself to these activities, but some offer dedicated sensory and quieter times to visit, or specialist 1 on 1 sessions depending on the activity.
Tip: There are plenty of activities that have been specifically tailored for children and young people aged 0-25 with special educational needs and/or disabilities. You can find a list of activities around Cheshire East on the LiveWell Government website.
Add in Sensory Breaks
Children with learning disabilities and autism, especially those with sensory processing issues, can become overwhelmed with too much stimulation. Incorporate regular sensory breaks into your day to help them manage their sensory needs.
Tip: Items like stress balls, fidget spinners, noise-cancelling headphones, or blankets can be really beneficial. You can also add in some calming activities into your schedule; whether it’s listening to music or taking some quiet time out in a designated calm space.
Staying Active
Physical activity is crucial for us all. It helps with motor skills, provides sensory input, and can be a great way to burn off energy. This could include anything from swimming, walks and hikes in the countryside, or even playing in the garden.
Tip: Cheshire and Greater Manchester are filled with beautiful countryside right on our doorstep. Discover the ‘Summer of Play’ with the National Trust with a host of events and fun for everyone.
Prepare for Transitions
Whether it’s transitioning from one activity to another or preparing for the return back to school in September, supporting them through these transitions can be really important.
Similar to how we approach changes at School, you can use social stories and visual schedules to explain upcoming changes at home too.
Tip: Practicing new routines and gradually introducing new activities can help to ease any changes and transitions you know are coming your way.
Keeping Costs Down
Pubs, restaurants, and cafés are offering Kids Eat Free or Kids Eat for Less deals to help parents and caregivers keep costs down this summer. Whether it’s a trip to a supermarket café or lunch at the local restaurant – you can find a list of everywhere taking part thanks to Money Saving Central.
Celebrate Achievements
After celebrating their end of school year achievements at School, the summer holidays are a great time to continue that positive reinforcement, no matter how big or small. It’s an opportunity to really see the progress they have made over the last year, continuing to boost their confidence and encourage that positive growth.
Tip: Keep a record or scrap book of what they got up to over the summer. Celebrating milestones and giving them something to look back on once they return to school.
Make Some Time for Yourself
Keeping up with children with that summer holiday energy is no mean feat. Taking the time to relax and recharge, planning in that respite will ensure you can make the most of and enjoy the time they have off.
