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Summer with Autism: No Lazy Days Here
You know how some moms and their kids get all excited about summer? They dream of lazy mornings, sipping lemonade, and chasing fireflies at dusk. Honestly, that sounds like a fairy tale to me, especially as a mom of a child with autism.
In my house, summer isn’t a break; it’s more of a restructured routine. Sure, there are some changes to the schedule, but they’re carefully planned. I have to negotiate these changes like I’m dealing with a corporate merger, and believe me, the stakes feel just as high! And let’s be real, I can’t just take a walk if things don’t go my way.
While most kids get to sleep in, my little one is up at the crack of dawn. It’s not just a summer thing; he wakes up early no matter the season. And guess what? We’re still in school. Yup, you heard me right! That year-round schooling idea that other parents joke about? That’s our reality. But before you start envying my “luck”, understand that it’s not a bonus; it’s necessary for my kiddo to avoid regression during the summer months. This isn’t summer camp—he needs the structure of school. And to add to the fun, summer school starts earlier than regular school, so my coffee maker is my best friend these days.
As for unstructured days? Forget it! We’re juggling school and therapy appointments, and sometimes those get rearranged because, apparently, therapists take vacations too. Can you believe that? I remember when my son’s music therapist took a week off for a family event, and I thought, “Seriously? You’re not the one having the baby!” Yeah, I can be a bit harsh like that.
Every winter, my husband and I get what I call “Vacation Amnesia” and book a family getaway, only to realize later how much planning it takes. My packing list grows longer every year. Nothing says love quite like trying to shush your kid in a hotel at 2 AM while you deal with a noise complaint. (Pro tip: Leave a generous tip for housekeeping; you’ll thank me later.)
Lazy days? Not in our world. We wake up at the same time, and I usually hit the pillow not too long after my little guy. Keeping him on a schedule is essential for his comfort and coping. Yes, we do get a tiny break between the end of the school year and the start of “Extended School Year,” but it’s a balancing act to keep him busy and engaged. Downtime can lead to trouble and anxiety, so we have to be proactive.
Barbecues? I’m packing his food or feeding him beforehand. Fireworks? I better have those noise-canceling headphones ready, or my son will be trying to crawl back into my womb! And pool parties? You’ve never seen a mom hover like I do when my kid is near water. His love for it, paired with a fearless attitude, can be quite the adventure.
It may not sound like your ideal summer, but for us, it’s just our normal. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I have to whip up a social story about the importance of sunscreen for my kid with sensory sensitivities.
For more information on how to navigate family planning, check out this excellent resource on artificial insemination and for those looking to boost their fertility, look into fertility supplements.
Summary:
Summer for an autism family isn’t about lazy days; it’s about maintaining structure and routine amidst the chaos. With a packed schedule of school, therapy, and careful planning for outings, summer can feel overwhelming. However, it’s all about finding balance and making the most of the time together.