School's Out, Structure’s In: Creating a Summer Routine for Children with Autism

As the school year ends across Canada, many families look forward to a slower pace, more sunshine, and less pressure. But for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), the transition from school to summer break can be overwhelming. Without the predictability of the classroom, some children may experience anxiety, behavioral challenges, or sensory overload. The key to a smoother summer? Maintaining structure—even in flexibility.

While summer can feel unstructured, it’s possible to preserve routine while still allowing for fun and relaxation. Here are a few strategies to help children with ASD feel supported and successful throughout the summer months.

1. Create a Predictable Daily Routine

Even without school bells, a consistent schedule gives children a sense of stability. Start with anchors like wake-up time, meals, outdoor play, quiet time, and bedtime. Then build in blocks for structured and unstructured activities.

Use a visual schedule with images or icons to represent each activity. These can be placed on a whiteboard, laminated schedule strip, or digital app. A consistent routine helps reduce surprises and supports smoother transitions between activities.

2. Use Social Stories for New Activities

Summer often includes changes—camps, vacations, visits to relatives, or different caregivers. Prepare your child for these experiences with personalized social stories. These short, visual narratives explain what will happen and how your child can respond.

Example:

“We are going to the park today. There will be swings and slides. I might see other children. I can ask to play or watch. After the park, we will go home and eat lunch.”

This tool helps children process upcoming changes and feel more prepared.

3. Explore Sensory-Friendly Summer Activities

Summer fun doesn't have to be loud or overwhelming. Look for sensory-friendly options like:

• Splash pads early in the morning (less crowded)

• Nature walks with visual scavenger hunts

• Sensory bins on the porch (water beads, sand, or rice)

• Bubble machines, shaded tents, or hammock time

• Gardening, sidewalk chalk, or baking projects

Many communities in Canada now offer sensory-friendly movie screenings, museum times, or adapted recreational programs. Check local listings or autism organizations for inclusive opportunities.

4. Balance Downtime and Engagement

Unstructured time is essential—but too much can lead to restlessness or meltdowns. Plan a mix of quiet solo play (e.g., puzzles, books, tablet time) and interactive activities (e.g., building blocks, cooking together). Keep transitions smooth by using timers or countdowns (“5 more minutes of tablet time, then lunch”).

5. Support Communication and Connection

Maintain consistent communication strategies from the school year—whether that’s using PECS (Picture Exchange Communication System), AAC devices, or verbal scripts. Also, take advantage of summer as a chance to build social-emotional skills in real-life settings, such as:

• Practicing greetings at the playground

• Choosing groceries at the store

• Role-playing emotions using favorite toys

Final Thoughts

Summer doesn’t have to mean chaos. By maintaining routines, planning sensory-considerate activities, and gently introducing new experiences, families can help children with ASD enjoy summer while continuing to grow.

Structure doesn't limit freedom—it gives children the foundation to explore the world with confidence.

Reference

Hume, K., Boyd, B. A., Hamm, J. V., & Kucharczyk, S. (2014). Supporting independence in adolescents on the autism spectrum. Remedial and Special Education, 35(2), 102–113. https://doi.org/10.1177/0741932513514617Gray, C. (2015). The New Social Story Book. Future Horizons.