Summer offers a wonderful opportunity for children to relax, explore, and engage in enriching activities outside the structure of the school year. For autistic children, however, summer can present both exciting opportunities and unique challenges. Changes in routine, sensory sensitivities, and social demands can make typical summer camps or group outings overwhelming. However, with thoughtful planning and an understanding of individual needs, summer can be filled with joyful, meaningful, and accessible experiences.
Here are a variety of fun summer activities tailored to support and delight autistic children, encouraging learning, exploration, and connection at their own pace with the help of ABA therapy for John's Creek, GA.
1. Sensory-Friendly Outdoor Play
Nature provides an excellent backdrop for calming and stimulating experiences. Many autistic children enjoy sensory-rich environments, so outdoor play can be both therapeutic and fun.
Nature walks in quiet parks or trails offer a peaceful setting with natural sensory input like the sound of birds or the texture of leaves.
Water play such as sprinklers, kiddie pools, or water tables can be a soothing way to cool down and engage the senses.
Sand play with buckets, scoops, and molds helps with fine motor development and sensory exploration.
Tip: Bring noise-canceling headphones or sunglasses if your child is sensitive to sounds or bright light.
2. Structured Creative Activities
Many autistic children thrive with predictability and routine. Structured arts and crafts sessions allow creativity while providing clear expectations.
Painting with tools like sponges or brushes can offer enjoyable tactile input.
Building with LEGO or kinetic sand provides both creativity and sensory engagement.
Sticker books, puzzles, or matching games can improve focus and hand-eye coordination.
Consider setting up a dedicated "creative corner" at home with a visual schedule to help guide activity time.
3. Movement and Exercise
Physical activity is essential for all children, and many autistic kids benefit from movement that helps with body awareness and emotional regulation.
Trampoline time or jumping on a crash pad is great for releasing energy.
Swimming in a calm environment, like a quiet pool or during sensory swim times, promotes motor skills and relaxation.
Obstacle courses set up in the yard or living room can be customized to your child's abilities and interests.
Always monitor your child's comfort level and provide breaks as needed.
4. Technology-Based Activities
While screen time should be balanced, educational and interactive apps can offer enjoyable and constructive play, especially during downtime or travel.
Story apps and visual storytelling tools can support language and comprehension.
Music apps allow for exploration without overwhelming sensory input.
Video modeling activities (short videos showing how to do something) can help children learn new skills or prepare for upcoming outings.
Choose apps that are user-friendly, calming, and match your child's developmental level.
5. Quiet Time and Sensory Retreats
Downtime is vital, especially after busy or stimulating activities. Create a calming space with:
Soft lighting or fairy lights
Weighted blankets or stuffed animals
Fidget toys, noise machines, or calming music
These safe, sensory-friendly spaces help your child self-regulate and recharge.
6. Inclusive Community Activities
Many communities offer sensory-friendly events, such as:
Movie theaters with dimmed lights and lower sound
Special hours at museums or aquariums
Adaptive sports programs like swimming, horseback riding, or yoga
Check with local autism organizations or community centers for listings.
7. Family Bonding Projects
Some of the most meaningful summer moments come from simple, shared activities.
Bake together, letting your child help with measuring or mixing
Start a small garden and watch plants grow
Have a themed picnic with favorite foods and toys
These activities strengthen bonds and create lasting memories.
How Elevation Autism Center Can Help your Autistic Child
Every autistic child is unique, and what's fun for one may be overwhelming for another. The key to a fulfilling summer is flexibility, patience, and tailoring experiences to your child's interests and needs. With a blend of sensory-friendly play, creative exploration, physical activity, and rest, summer can be a joyful season of growth and connection for autistic children and their families.
Elevation Autism Center provides a comprehensive approach to building social skills in children with autism, guiding families from enrollment through kindergarten. Our center tailors its programs to meet each child's unique needs, focusing on key social skills such as communication, emotional regulation, and interaction with peers. Through evidence-based therapies like Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) and play-based interventions, children learn to navigate social environments in a supportive, structured setting. Parents also receive guidance and resources to reinforce progress at home. By the time children transition to kindergarten, they are better prepared to thrive socially and academically, fostering confidence and independence. Contact us at Elevation Autism today by phone or enroll now to learn how our tailored ABA therapy can make a significant difference in your loved one's life.
Alpharetta
11560 Great Oaks Way
Suite 300
Alpharetta GA 30022
(404) 474-0040
Norcross
157 Technology Pkwy NW Ste 600
Norcross, GA 30092
(470) 749-8998
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4375 River Green Pkwy Suite 150
Duluth, GA 30096
(770) 882-0848
