Special Needs Parenting

As summer approaches (the birds are singing outside my window as I write) I am thinking about summer extracurricular activities. Each offers something different. What are the activities that your child will use this summer?

Some kids with special needs, particularly those with ADHD need to work off some energy. Athletic activities are often good for them. Although, some sports that require lots of self-control may not be a good pick.

Other kids (especially those with neurological issues) thrive with something more therapeutic. Swimming, going to a kids’ gym with trampolines, and swinging in the park are often great choices.

Some kids don’t do well in the heat because of health conditions. They will enjoy interest-appropriate kids’ museums, an afternoon at a library story time, or a movie.

Kids with hearing loss typically long for time with their friends because of their communication needs. In addition to outings to specific events, planning a regular socialization time with their peers is a winning approach.

Sometimes parents of kids with special needs avoid outings. Let’s face it, there are often more things to get ready (and take) and crowded events can be frustrating. I encourage you to have a plan for your family outings. Perhaps set aside a specific day of the week. Beforehand, check into the destination. Plan a time that fits the needs of your family but is also not the peek traffic time for the event.

Those birds are still singing outside my window. Most schools are counting down the days until school is out. What will you do when they are bored this summer?