1. Have a plan
Yes life is dynamic and we need to be flexible but having a plan will really help you stay calm and more prepared, your child know what is coming up and reduce anxiety. Things to plan for include, meal times, me time, quality time, screen time, outings / events etc.
2. Structure in quality time
It's all to easy to end up being busy and stressed out over the summer holidays. Make sure you structure in regular moments for quality time together where you are 100% present!
3. Don’t let screen time take over
Summer holidays tend to be a time for many families when everything they have worked hard to achieve the whole year around slips, this is understandable due to the extra pressures on parents over summer holidays. One thing that people really struggle to get back on track with is limiting screen time and the effects of increased screen time leads to other problems.
4. Make sure you still get YOUR me –time.
Very important, school holidays are so difficult for many parents but one thing that you can do to ensure that your energy levels do not get depleted is to ensure you factor in REGULAR me time during the summer holidays to refuel you and help you be the best you, you can be.
5. Enjoy the process not the end point.
If you have planned to go on a trip, outing or do a particular event, don’t put all your focus on having an amazing time when you get there. Aim to enjoy the process of preparation, the journey, and get your child involved to keep them busy and to use the opportunity. When you are there, relax. When its over reminisce when you return and you might be surprised how pleasant it was and notice what surprised you.
If you would like some help to get the most out of your summer and more then please contact me at elisa@thinkautism.co.uk to arrange a time to discuss how we can work together.