How Can You Make School Holidays Easier for Children with Autism and ADHD?
School holidays can be challenging for children who rely on routine and structure. Maintaining predictable daily schedules, providing sensory activities, planning regular breaks and offering choices can help children with autism, ADHD and additional needs enjoy a calmer and more enjoyable holiday period.
If your child struggles with focus, routine or regulation during school holidays, our ADHD Support Guide includes additional sensory support strategies.
As a parent of a child with complex sensory needs, I know that school holidays can bring both excitement and challenges. While a break from school can be beneficial, changes to routine can sometimes increase anxiety or dysregulation. We've found that maintaining some structure while allowing flexibility often works best.
For more practical support ideas, explore our Autism Support Guide.
1. Daily Schedule
Try to stick to a daily schedule. Set times for meals, play, and rest so your child knows what to expect.
Example: Use a visual schedule with pictures to show what will happen each day.
2. Plan Fun Activities
Choose activities your child likes. Think about art projects, nature walks, or going to places that are sensory friendly.
Example: Create a sensory bin with rice, beans, or sand for tactile play at home.
Looking for more sensory activity ideas? Read our guide to fun sensory play activities for kids.
3. Take Sensory Breaks
Schedule breaks to help your child relax. Create a quiet space with calming sensory toys or tools to help them feel better when they are overwhelmed.
Example: Use a weighted blanket to provide calming pressure during breaks.
4. Talk About Plans
Let your child know what you will be doing each day. Use pictures or charts to show them the activities you have planned.
Example: Make a daily chart with pictures of activities and include a stress ball to help them focus while discussing plans.
5. Be Flexible
Be ready to change plans if something isn’t working. If your child is not enjoying an activity, it’s okay to switch to something else.
Example: Keep a few different sensory toys, such as fidget toys or sensory putty, on hand so your child can choose something they feel like using.
6. Encourage Playdates
Set up playdates with friends who understand your child. Make sure the environment is comfortable for your child to play and socialise.
Example: Have calming tools like bubble poppers available during playdates for shared sensory fun.
7. Get Outside
Spend time in nature. Outdoor activities like hiking, picnicking, or visiting a zoo can be fun and relaxing for your child.
Example: Bring along a nature scavenger hunt checklist to make the outing more interactive and exciting.
Rainy weather can sometimes disrupt outdoor plans. Explore our rainy day ideas for additional sensory-friendly activities.
8. Use Visual Aids
Use pictures or calendars to help your child see what is happening each day. Mark special events to make it clear what’s coming up.
Example: Use a large wall calendar with stickers to mark special days and activities, and include a visual timer to help them understand when activities will start or end.
9.Allow Choices
Let your child make choices about activities or snacks. This can help them feel more in control and excited about their day.
Example: Offer a choice between two different sensory toys, like a squishy stress ball or a textured sensory mat.
10. Take Care of Yourself
Don’t forget to take breaks for yourself. Caring for a child with additional needs can be tiring, so make sure to relax and recharge when you can.
Example: Use a calming essential oil diffuser while you take a few moments to unwind.
Frequently Asked Questions About School Holidays and Additional Needs
How can I help my autistic child during school holidays?
Maintaining routines, providing sensory activities and preparing children for daily plans can help reduce anxiety during school holidays. For additional support ideas, explore our Autism Support Guide.
Are school holidays difficult for children with ADHD?
Some children with ADHD find the loss of routine challenging. Structured activities and sensory breaks can help maintain focus and regulation.
What sensory activities are good during school holidays?
Sensory bins, outdoor play, stress balls, fidget toys and creative sensory activities can help keep children engaged. You can find a wide range of sensory toys designed to support sensory play, focus and regulation.
How do I create a routine during school holidays?
Visual schedules, calendars and predictable daily activities can help children understand what to expect each day.
With a little planning, the school holidays can be a fun time for both you and your child. Enjoy making special memories together while giving them the support they need!