Summer vacation! Just the words themselves conjure up images of lazy days, sunshine, and endless possibilities. But between the excitement and the freedom, there can also be a looming question for autistic individuals:
How do we create a summer vacation routine that’s both fun and predictable, helping us thrive throughout the break?
Don’t worry, this blog is here to be your guide.
How to Make a Routine for Summer Vacation
Summer vacation routines for autistic individuals don’t have to be about restrictions and boredom. Think of them more like treasure maps leading you to a summer filled with epic adventures (and maybe a nap or two).
Here are some tips to get you started, keeping in mind sensory sensitivities and the need for predictability:
- Brainstorm Bonanza! Grab your favorite markers, some colorful paper, and get ready for a fantastic brainstorming session. What are the things you absolutely have to do this summer? Learning a new skill? Building a quiet reading nook? Write it all down! This will be your starting point for crafting a routine that incorporates all the summer awesomeness, while also including calming and familiar activities.
- Teamwork Makes the Dream Work! Involving the whole family in creating a summer routine can be a blast, while also providing a sense of security and stability. Get your parents, siblings, or even the neighbor’s kid to join the brainstorming session. Working together can spark even more creative ideas and make sure everyone feels included in the summer fun.
- Schedule Shuffle: Okay, so the word “schedule” might not sound super exciting, but hear us out! Think of it as a visual guide, not a drill sergeant. Using a visual chart or planner with pictures or icons can help autistic individuals stay on track throughout the day. Block out some time slots for specific activities like quiet reading time or swimming lessons, keeping things organized without feeling too rigid. For example, dedicate a morning to conquering that epic reading list, schedule an afternoon for pool time with friends (with earplugs on hand if needed!), and leave some open space for spontaneous adventures.
Tip: Remember, summer vacation routines should be flexible! If you wake up one day feeling overwhelmed, scrap the planned group activity and have a calming sensory play session instead.
How Do You Write Your Daily Routine on Holiday?
Even on vacation, having a loose plan with some predictable elements can be helpful for autistic individuals.
Here’s how to create a daily summer vacation routine that keeps things exciting while still allowing for some relaxation:
- Pick Your Priorities: Are you on a sightseeing mission to a new city with bustling crowds? Do you crave some quality beach time with predictable routines? Knowing your vacation goals will help you structure your days, including time for breaks in quieter environments if needed.
- Plan for Pockets of Free Time: While it’s great to have some activities planned, don’t forget to schedule some downtime! Leave room in your routine for spontaneous discoveries, lazy mornings, or simply chilling in your hotel room with a familiar book or game. This predictability can help manage any anxieties that might arise from new experiences.
- Embrace the Unexpected: Part of the magic of summer vacation is the unexpected adventures that pop up. Be flexible and open to changing your plans if something amazing comes your way. Who knows, you might discover your new favorite thing to do, as long as it doesn’t involve overwhelming sensory input!
What Should I Plan for Summer Vacation?
Summer vacation is your chance to explore new things and create unforgettable memories, while keeping some familiar routines in place for comfort.
Here are some ideas to spark your creativity:
- Local Legends: Become a tourist in your own town! Explore local museums with headphones to manage noise levels, parks with quiet nature trails, or even historical landmarks you might not have visited before. There might be hidden gems right in your own backyard waiting to be discovered, in a way that feels comfortable and predictable.
- Skill-Building Bonanza: Have you always wanted to learn how to code video games in a quiet space at home, bake the perfect cake in a predictable kitchen routine, or speak a new language through online tutorials? Summer vacation is the perfect time to pick up a new skill, at your own pace and in a familiar environment.
- Creative Collaborations: Get together with a trusted friend who understands your sensory needs and brainstorm some epic summer projects. Build a quiet reading fort, stage a backyard play with calming music, or create a neighborhood scavenger hunt that sticks to familiar routes. The possibilities are endless, as long as they can be done in a way that manages any sensory sensitivities and allows for breaks when needed.
How Can I Do Summer Vacation at Home?
Who says you need to travel far and wide to have an amazing summer vacation? There’s a whole world of adventure waiting for you right at home, in a familiar and predictable environment!
- Backyard Blitz: Transform your backyard into your own personal summer oasis! Set up a sprinkler for some quiet water play, build a fort with calming lighting and soft blankets, or have a movie night under the stars with familiar favorites. With a little creativity, your backyard can become the coolest hangout spot in town, tailored to your sensory needs.
- DIY Days: Dive into the world of do-it-yourself projects at your own pace and in a familiar space! From tie-dyeing shirts in calming colors to making your own slime with predictable textures, there are endless possibilities. The internet is full of inspiration, so get ready to unleash your inner artist or inventor, all from the comfort of your home.
- The Great Indoors Adventure: Rainy days got you down? No worries! Spend some quality time reading comics in a cozy corner, building with Legos in a quiet space, or playing video games you know and love. There are tons of fun activities you can do indoors that can be just as exciting as outdoor adventures, while keeping you comfortable and avoiding overwhelming sensory experiences.
Remember:
The key to a fantastic summer vacation routine for autistic individuals is finding the perfect balance between excitement, predictability, and managing sensory input. By planning some fun activities, incorporating calming routines, and staying flexible, you can create a summer vacation that’s truly unforgettable.