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SCHOOL'S OUT - Now What?

Writer's picture: Lisa HicksLisa Hicks

Updated: Jul 15, 2024


TL;DR: Summer break can be both a blessing and a curse when you have neurodivergent children and/or when you are ND yourself. Everyone has different needs, different triggers and different expectations. In this post we have some starting points and ideas for how to build a low-demand summer for your family such as incorporating morning check-ins, flexible activity blocks, consistent mealtimes, quiet time, and end-of-day reflections. This approach provides predictability and security while allowing for flexibility and choice, ensuring a balanced and enjoyable summer for both you and your kiddo.

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Note from Lisa: From the time my kids started school, summer break always gave me mixed feelings. On the one hand, I was SO excited to not have to go through the morning hustle 5x a week, make lunches, manage the school resistance, etc. On the other hand...kids home 24/7 + working + managing my mental health, plus, plus plus.

This is the first summer where I'm feeling cautiously optimistic about having the kids home. Granted, they are older, more independent and have friends that they want to visit with. This is new for us. I also feel like we've been building on our low-demand approach and are making great headway with that. I've also been working DAMN hard to rest, recover from burnout and allow myself to play more, which makes me excited to play with my kids (hypothetically). Oh and JJ (my husband) will be home for at least part of it, so that's HUGE.


And yet, I still have a wiggle of anxiety in my brain telling me "it's gonna SUCKKKKKKK" and while I know that voice isn't neccesarily accurate, it still had me in a bit of a panic. SO, I took myself over to ChatGPT and said "HELP". This is what it came up with.


PLEASE KNOW - this won't work for everyone. This may not even work for us. BUT, this was a really helpful jumping off place for me and how we can set expectations for the day as a family. It also encourages the kids to be active participants in the decision process, which is HUGE (especially if you have PDA kiddos).


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Creating a gentle and flexible routine for your neurodivergent child can provide a sense of security while allowing for adaptability. Here are some tips on how to build a low-demand routine that works for your family.


1. Morning Check-In

Start each day with a morning check-in. Discuss what activities are planned and allow your child to have input. This helps them feel involved and sets expectations for the day.


2. Flexible Activity Blocks

Instead of a strict schedule, use flexible activity blocks. For example, have blocks for outdoor play, creative time, quiet time, and screen time. This allows your child to know what to expect while giving them the freedom to choose within those blocks.


3. Consistent(ish) Mealtimes

Keep mealtimes consistent. This anchors the day and provides natural breaks. Involve your child in meal preparation if they enjoy it, as this can be a fun and educational activity.


4. Quiet Time and Downtime

Incorporate quiet time into your routine. This could be reading, listening to music, or just relaxing in a calm space. It’s important for both you and your child to have downtime to recharge.


5. End-of-Day Reflection

End the day with a reflection time. Talk about what activities were enjoyed and what can be done differently tomorrow. This helps your child process their day and provides closure.


By implementing a gentle routine with flexible activity blocks and consistent mealtimes, you can create a balanced and predictable environment that accommodates your child’s needs.

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Disclaimer:

I have used AI assistance to craft this post, incorporating my own thoughts and voice. The tools and strategies mentioned are ones that I genuinely use and have thoroughly vetted.


The information provided in this blog post is accurate and up to date at the time of publishing. It is essential to recognize that research in the field of ADHD, Autism, and other forms of Neurodivergence is continuously evolving, and new insights may emerge over time.


Please bear in mind that the content of this post is not intended to serve as a diagnostic tool. It is purely for informational purposes and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice or consultation. If you suspect or are living with ADHD, Autism, or any other form of Neurodivergence, I strongly urge you to seek guidance from a trained medical professional or qualified healthcare provider who can provide a proper evaluation and personalized recommendations based on your individual circumstances.


Every individual's situation is unique, and the information presented here may not apply to everyone. Therefore, I strongly encourage you to consult with a medical professional or trusted healthcare provider for accurate diagnosis, guidance, and tailored support. Your well-being is of utmost importance, and seeking expert advice is crucial to ensure you receive the best care and support for your specific needs.



XO,





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