7 Summer Survival Tips: Keep Your Neurodivergent Child Busy, Regulated, and Engaged
Summer break is a time for rest, play, and family memories, but for many parents of neurodivergent children, it can also bring challenges like disrupted routines, increased sensory needs, and a lot of “I’m bored” moments.
Whether your child is autistic, has ADHD, sensory processing challenges, or struggles with transitions, the lack of structure during summer can quickly lead to meltdowns or shutdowns—for everyone. At Path2Growth, we believe summer should feel safe, supportive, and fun. That’s why we’ve pulled together a few tried-and-true tips to help keep your neurodivergent child regulated and meaningfully engaged all summer long.
1. Keep a Loose Routine (Visual Schedules Help!)
Neurodivergent kids thrive on predictability. Create a simple daily rhythm (wake-up, meals, play, screen time, rest, outings) and use visuals or timers to help your child know what’s coming next. Consistency doesn’t mean rigidity—it means they know what to expect.
Bonus Tip: Involve your child in planning! Even young kids can help choose activities or decorate their own summer schedule chart.
2. Create a Summer Sensory Kit
Whether your child is sensory-seeking or easily overwhelmed, summer comes with new sights, smells, and sounds. A go-to sensory toolbox (fidget toys, noise-canceling headphones, chewies, weighted lap pad, cooling towels) can make outings smoother and downtime more soothing.
3. Use Special Interests to Your Advantage
Obsessed with dinosaurs? Minecraft? Space? Use those passions to guide learning, connection, and activities. You can turn a special interest into:
A themed scavenger hunt
A creative art project
A “museum day” at home
A storytelling or comic book challenge
When your child feels seen and respected for what lights them up, they’re more engaged—and you build trust.
4. Break Activities Into Brain + Body Time
Alternate between activities that use brain energy (puzzles, crafts, building) and body energy (dancing, water play, obstacle courses). This helps your child regulate attention, avoid overstimulation, and burn off extra energy that could otherwise lead to big emotions.
5. Plan for Transitions Ahead of Time
Unexpected changes are hard for many neurodivergent kids. Try using:
Countdown timers or verbal warnings (“5 more minutes before we clean up!”)
Previewing tools like social stories, first/then visuals, or scripting ahead
Transition objects (a fidget or comfort item they carry between activities)
These tools help your child shift gears more smoothly—whether it’s going from the pool to the car or from screen time to bedtime.
6. Lean into Quiet Time
Downtime is just as important as activity. Build in moments where your child can decompress in a low-sensory space—like a reading nook, tent, or cozy corner. This is especially important after busy outings, playdates, or camps.
7. Connect with a Neuroaffirming Provider
Summer is a great time to work on executive functioning, emotional regulation, or skill-building in a more relaxed setting. Consider:
Parent coaching to improve daily routines
Executive functioning coaching to help with planning and attention
Play-based therapy for emotional regulation and self-expression
Sensory-based occupational therapy if your child struggles with sensory input
At Path2Growth, our team is here to help your family thrive—not just survive—the summer.
Remember: There’s no “right” way to summer. The best summer is one that fits your family’s needs. Focus on progress over perfection, connection over compliance, and joy over judgment.
If you're looking to use the summer months to better understand your child’s learning, attention, or behavior—now is a great time to schedule a comprehensive evaluation before the school year ramps up again.
Or, if your goal is to keep skills sharp and routines on track, our Growth Coaching program helps children and teens strengthen executive functioning, emotional regulation, and everyday habits—all through a neuroaffirming lens.
✨ Ready to make this a summer of growth?
📞 Contact us today to schedule a testing consultation or sign up for coaching support.
You don’t have to do this alone. Let’s grow together.
