Summer Break Ideas

July 14, 2016
Posted By: admin


The end of the school year leaves many parents wondering what their kids will do all summer long. Attend summer camp? Hang with a babysitter? Stay home with Mom or Dad? Whatever it is, most parents want to make sure that their kids are well entertained and build upon everything they learned over the school year – especially children with special needs. Here are some resources to keep your kids busy this summer:

  1. DIY Sensory Activities – water, beans, sand, grass, shaving cream… So many basic household items can be turned into a quick, easy, and inexpensive sensory activity! Check out 10 Summer Fun Sensory DIY Sensory Games for Kids at Autism Speaks. Also be sure to visit Venture’s Sensory Processing board on Pinterest for more information and activities.
  2. Sensory-Friendly Movies – An afternoon at the movies is the perfect antidote for rainy-day boredom. Many movie theater chains are now offering special show times for people on the autism spectrum and with other sensory processing disorders so they can enjoy films in a safe and inclusionary environment. Movie theaters leave the lights on, lower the sound, and bringing in your own snacks is encouraged. Viewers are also invited to move around as much as they’d like. For more information about sensory-friendly viewings at local cinemas, check out Cinemagic and AMC Theatres.
  3. Inclusive Summer Camps – New England boasts many fun summer camps that offer accommodations for children with special needs, including adaptive activities, specially trained staff, and most importantly, an inclusive environment. For more information about programs in the area, visit SPED Child and Teen’s summer camp listing on their web site. Also check out this recent article from Bay State Parent about choosing your child’s summer camp.
  4. Adaptive Recreation – Be sure to check out the Department of Conservation and Recreation’s Universal Access Program, which provides adaptive outdoor recreational opportunities including kayaking, hiking, picnicking, fishing, horseback riding (in partnership with Windrush Farm), and much more.

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