14 Reasons Summer is Tough for Special Needs Moms

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As summer approaches, many kids are gearing up for a break. But for those of us raising special needs children, this season can feel more like a challenge than a celebration. I used to love summer—long, lazy days filled with beach trips and ice cream. Now? I often find myself wishing the season away.

Being a special needs parent is a daily test, and the extended summer break can make things even more complicated. Unlike the shorter breaks during winter or spring, summer is a long stretch that can disrupt the routines and supports our kids rely on. Here’s why summer can be a rough ride for us:

1. Big Changes – Summer brings one of the most significant transitions for my son, Alex. While school offers a structured environment with a fantastic support team, summer means navigating a whole new set of challenges.
2. Lack of Structure – Unlike the school year, summer days often lack a clear structure. We try to maintain a routine, but it’s just not the same, and I can’t replicate the magic that his teachers bring.
3. No Clear Schedule – Alex thrives on his school schedule, which runs from 6 am to 6 pm. Filling those 12 hours can be a daunting task, especially when I’m juggling work and parenting without a special education background.
4. New Experiences – Summer camps and activities introduce new staff and settings. This means I have to give them a crash course on Alex, making sure they understand his needs.
5. Social Skills – The regular social interactions that happen at school disappear, leaving a gap in Alex’s opportunities to practice his social skills. Summer activities can be hit or miss in terms of socialization.
6. Regression – It’s only Day 1 of summer, and already I notice regression signs. Alex is more inclined to throw tantrums and spend too much time in front of the TV, which makes the mornings feel chaotic.
7. Fewer Resources – With school out, the daily support systems for Alex vanish. Suddenly, I’m the one expected to channel the expertise of his teachers and therapists.
8. Parental Guilt – Whether you’re a working parent or at home, the pressure to keep your child engaged and thriving can be overwhelming during the summer months.
9. Unpredictable Events – From summer storms to fireworks, the unpredictability can be scary for Alex and many other special needs kids.
10. Sensory Overload – The summertime sensory experiences can be a lot—think sand, sunscreen, and crowds. It can feel like a lot of chaos all at once.
11. Sleep Disruption – Sticking to a sleep schedule is tough in the summer, and the lack of routine can lead to a rocky start to each day.
12. Spontaneity Challenges – While the idea of spontaneous outings sounds fun, it’s often met with anxiety from Alex, making it hard to enjoy those last-minute plans.
13. Sibling Rivalries – Balancing the needs of siblings with Alex’s can be a daily struggle, especially when they all have different expectations of how to spend their summer.
14. Awkward Stares – When you see us out and about, please know that we’re doing our best. If Alex is having a meltdown, it’s not about ruining your summer. We’re just counting down until school starts again.

While many parents may feel a bit anxious about summer, typical families often turn to ice cream and beach outings to lift their spirits. As for us, we might indulge in ice cream for breakfast and watermelon for dinner, dancing to our own unique summer beat.

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In summary, summer can be a tough season for special needs families due to the lack of structure, the challenges of new experiences, and the pressure on parents to keep their children engaged and happy. While the joys of summer still exist, the complexities often overshadow them.