Ways To Keep Kids Busy This Summer

4 Ways To Keep Kids Busy This Summer: Lazy summer days can be hard on children with special needs because they crave the structure that school provides. 

Incorporating organization to the summer months may be needed in order to make the most of them. “It’s heresy!” some of you are screaming, while others are scratching heads, feeling that the beauty of summer days are lazy, unpredictable moments. But unpredictability is just the thing that makes certain kids feel lost in the world. And that feeling often demonstrates itself in meltdowns, anxiety and other less than pleasant situations.

For instance, do you go to the Farmer’s Market every Friday? Let him know. Is Monday laundry day? Maybe Saturday becomes Family Night, with homemade pizza and a kid-friendly dessert, with a movie or game to follow. (We Know Stuff has scads of activities and delicious recipes for your family to try!) Other ideas to incorporate are Library Day, Crafting Day, and Day Trips. The options are limitless!

Incorporate your children’s ideas, too, and your summer is bound to be full of memories you will all fondly look back on!

WAYS TO KEEP KIDS BUSY THIS SUMMER

1.) Take them shopping with you.

Grocery shopping can be the most dreaded day of the week for kids, right? Consider planning ahead and have the kids help find ingredients on your list. For those who love to organize, have them in charge of the coupons and finding special deals.

2.) Have Crafting Days.

Just keep in mind any sensory issues. Some kids absolutely love squishy play dough, which is known to calm the most active among us, while others go running due to its texture. Scents can also be of concern, as well as fine motor skills. Keep in mind your child’s sensory and fine motor realm for the best chance at success!

3.) Schedule Movie nights!

Movie night can be tough if not everyone agrees on what to watch. Consider taking turns so that everyone knows ahead of time who gets to pick tonight’s flick. Consider marking this on the calendar to avoid conflicts.

4.) Cook with them.

Kid friendly desserts are a good lesson in getting them familiar with the kitchen. Taking turns is another way to ensure patience when today is not “our” day to choose the menu.

Peace,
Julie Clark

Looking for more articles about helping your child with special needs?

• Kids Summer Schedule Ideas
• Sensory Difficulties At Sporting Events
• Indulging Special Interests for Children