Warm weather, lots of sun, and no school — it sounds like a child’s dream. But for parents, it’s not that dreamy. We want to give our kids the absolute best summer experience, but we don’t want them to lose the skills they’ve gained over the school year. For a child with autism, we have the added challenge of finding activities that work for their challenges and easing the transition out of the school year.
Finding things to do in the summer can be hard. Here are some ideas that you can try out with your child. Let us know how it goes!
Summer gives so many options for engaging activities that your child can enjoy. Some activities can also introduce them to communities where they can interact with others and find ways to connect with peers. It’s a great time for your child to explore new interests and discover their hidden strengths
These aren’t only for summer — they can happen all year round. But on the long summer days (especially if you child is home all day) a movie outing can break up the day and help time fly. Check if your local theaters offer sensory-friendly showings and reserve your slots in advance.
There are autism summer programs that are designed for children on the spectrum. Some are mainstream camps that have a separate track with different types of activities. Some conventional camps will accept and accommodate children with autism in their programs. Some are camps for kids with autism. Think about your child’s needs and level of independence to decide which option would be best for your child.
Public libraries are an incredible resource for all families. Many libraries host seasonal programs and workshops — from reading contests to storybook hour to in-person activities and community events. Visit your library to see what they offer and sign up for whichever programs you think your child will enjoy.
Sign your child up for an activity that interests them. Your local YMCA, public library, or community center might offer classes. Or you can look for a private course in your community. Summer is a great time to encourage your child’s interests and cultivate their talents — the ones you know about and the ones you haven’t yet discovered.
Swimming is amazing for children for so many reasons. It develops their muscles, helps them interact and build social skills, and of course it’s great exercise — not to mention fun. Find a pool in or near your community that caters to special needs. A swim instructor who knows and gets autism can help your child learn to swim faster and can equip them with more.
Nature is calming, and there’s no better time to experience it than in the summer. Take advantage of the warm weather to go on short hikes or walks and spend time in the park. Choose a place that doesn’t tend to be crowded so your child won’t get overwhelmed and you’ll be able to enjoy the peace and quiet.
Your child might not be the most athletic, but that doesn’t mean they can’t play. Adaptive sports teams cater to children on the spectrum. Sports are an incredible way to strengthen their muscles and build a group of friendlies for them to spend time with. With the right team and a coach who gets it, your child can learn to play and enjoy the games.
Activities don’t have to be just for the kids — you can join in, too. A family yoga class is a great way for the family to spend time together, relax, and learn and practice regulating techniques. Check your local gym or community center to see if they offer “Mommy & Me” or family-friendly classes.
Some museums hold special times for families with autism. When you visit at these times, you’ll get to participate in a sensory-friendly program where your child can experience the museum in their own way. If you sign up in advance, you might also get pre-visit resources to help you plan your visit so you get the most out of it.
Try an interactive online program that helps children and teens develop skills like communication, collaboration, and friendship building. These camps provide a fun, engaging, and therapeutic environment for practicing and honing social skills in a virtual setting.
Summer and its change of routine can be hard for a child with autism, but it can also be the experience of a lifetime. The key to a great summer is finding activities that are engaging, fun for your child, doable for you, and safe to participate in.
Don’t be scared to try out new activities. You won’t know what your child will love if they haven’t gotten to try it out. And remember, a trip that didn’t go as planned is not the end of the world. It just means you won’t do it again next week — and maybe you’ll have a great story to share later on. Try an activity — and you might just discover your child’s new favorite thing.
Great summer activities include sensory-friendly movie screenings, autism-friendly camps, library reading programs, community art/music workshops, swim classes, adaptive sports, nature walks, yoga, museum mornings, and virtual social skill camps.
Check resources like Autism Speaks’ event finder, the American Camp Association, Smithsonian’s accessibility office, and the National Parks Association. You can also ask other parents or search online with terms like “autism-friendly” or “sensory-friendly.”
Yes. Some camps are designed exclusively for children on the spectrum, while others offer accommodations or separate tracks. Consider your child’s needs, interests, and support requirements when choosing the best camp.
Summer means a change in routine, which can be challenging. Structured, engaging, and autism-friendly activities help maintain skills, reduce stress, and offer valuable social, emotional, and physical growth opportunities.
That’s okay. Not every activity will work out, and that’s part of the process. Try different things and focus on what your child enjoys. Even less successful outings can provide learning and memorable moments.