Ah, summer. Longer days, sticky popsicle fingers, and the perfect excuse to slow down and soak up some sunshine with your little one. If you’re parenting a young child with autism, you might be wondering how to fill these sunny days with activities that are fun, sensory-friendly, and (most importantly) help you connect.
Good news: you don’t need fancy outings or Pinterest-perfect crafts. The best summer memories are built from simple, joyful moments.
Here are some easy, connection-ready ideas to try this summer:
💦 1. Water Play = Instant Joy
Break out the kiddie pool, grab some cups and toys, and let the splash-fest begin! Water play is great for sensory input and shared fun. Bonus: it keeps everyone cool.
Try:
- Pouring water back and forth together
- Floating small toys and making them little rafts (get creative and use what you have!)
- A good old-fashioned sprinkler run (you first!)
🌿 2. Nature Walks (at Little Leg Speed)
No need to hike a mountain! A simple stroll through a nearby park or backyard can provide limitless moments of wonder. Look for bugs, crunch leaves, or say hello to squirrels. Let your child take the lead and explore what catches their eye. And those small, shared moments can add up to big joint attention skills quickly! And even if they don’t, you still got to crunch the acorn. It’s a win/win!
🎨 3. Painting with Things from Nature
Turn your nature walk treasures (leaves, sticks, flowers) into art supplies! Dip them in paint and stamp or swipe them onto paper. This is a beautiful way to explore textures, colors, and creativity without any pressure.
Even if it turns into a finger-paint free-for-all, you’re making something together and that’s the real masterpiece.
🫧 4. Bubbles & Chalk: Classic for a Reason
Blow. Pop. Chase. Repeat. It’s magic every time. Or grab some sidewalk chalk and doodle together. Shapes, squiggles, or your best attempt at a dinosaur.
These activities are perfect for turn-taking, imitation, and good old-fashioned giggles.
🧊 5. Sensory Bins & Frozen Toy Rescue
Fill a bin with rice, sand, or water beads and let the digging begin!
Feeling extra creative? Freeze a few toys in ice cubes and play “rescue mission” with warm water and spoons.
It’s fun, it’s messy, and it’s a great way to bond while encouraging sensory exploration.
📚 6. Blanket Forts & Chill Time
When it’s too hot outside, bring the fun indoors. Build a cozy blanket fort, crawl inside with some books or a flashlight, and just hang out. Sing songs. Read together. Or just cuddle and breathe.
Sometimes the quiet moments are the most meaningful.
Tips for Summer Play:
- Follow their lead: Join in their play rather than directing it. You might even learn some new ways to play from them!
- Narrate the play: Kids at all learning levels can benefit from hearing the activities narrated. Try to limit asking questions to keep the “work” low for the child.
- Use routines: Children often thrive on knowing what to expect. Summer traditions and rituals (like “morning bubble time” or “Friday splash day”) can be a fun way to play while minimizing fear of the unknown. Use visual schedules to help them know what’s coming!
- Celebrate small moments of joy and connection. Afterall, that’s what summer is all about.
❤️ The Big Takeaway?
You don’t need to do everything. You don’t even need to leave your backyard. Just look for those small, sparkling moments of connection when you’re laughing together, making eye contact, or following your child’s lead.
Those are the moments that build trust, joy, and beautiful memories.
Have fun this summer. You’ve got this. 💛
