Creating a Summertime Routine for a Neurodivergent Child

For many parents, summertime is typically the same as the rest of the year: we still work, make dinner, and interact with our families. But for children, especially those who are neurodivergent, the summer months are different.

In theory, summer should be fun and carefree. There's no school, no homework, and nothing to stress children out. But, for a neurodivergent child, this isn't the case.

Neurodivergent children crave structure and routine. They may be excited about fun activities but anxious about the new and unexpected. During the warmer months, parents need to be mindful about how their children can stay calm and productive. The goal is for them to enjoy the summer and then ease back into the school routine in the fall. The routine must be ongoing, not a start-and-stop according to the seasons.

Here are five tips to support your neurodivergent child this summer.

1. Create a daily routine. Keep a routine similar to the school year. Wake your child up around a similar time and feed them snacks, lunch, and dinner accordingly. Meals can get tricky in the summertime, so keep this foundational routine in mind.

2. Review the weekly schedule together. This activity helps manage expectations and avoid meltdowns. Your child will know if they will be home, at day camp, or at a family member's house. Make the schedule a conversation point and ask what activities they'd like to accomplish over the week.

3. Allow space for free time. Neurodivergent children often experience boredom, so it's important for them to learn how to entertain themselves and gain independence. However, a neurodivergent child might follow you around the house, need attention, and not be able to maintain their play. Therefore, you should structure the free time for this child. Give them a list of activities they can do independently and the amount of time it should take them to play a video game, do a puzzle, etc. You can set a timer, too, to help set the structure.

4. Do not allow unlimited screen time. Your child would spend the whole day watching YouTube videos and playing Roblox. And then, when you ask them to stop using their phone or computer, you'll witness an epic meltdown. If you set limits from day one of summer, your life will be much easier. Sometimes, screen time in a pinch is necessary, but don't make it a habit.

5. Remember to prioritize your well-being. Putting some parental “me time” into the summer schedule isn't a luxury; it's a necessity. You can't be “on” 24/7, especially during the summer when you'll likely be home with your child. Taking a break is essential to recharge and ensure you can support your child during their summer break.

Keep to a routine, and hopefully, you and your child will have a fantastic summer.