Child playing in splash pad

30 Sensory-Friendly Summer Bucket List Activities for Neurodiverse Kids

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Summers can be a great time to make family memories, but keeping neurodiverse children entertained and engaged can be a bit challenging. Our daughter Elizabeth has autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), so finding activities to keep her engaged and busy is a priority for us over the summer months. As a result, I like to find a balance between fun activities and activities that benefit her development. I’ve put together some of our favorite sensory-friendly summer bucket list ideas to help keep summers fun for everyone!

Why Choose Sensory-Friendly Activities

Sensory-friendly activities are designed to be enjoyable and relaxing for children with sensory sensitivities. They help manage sensory overload and anxiety, ensuring a fun-filled experience without discomfort.

Benefits of Sensory-Friendly Activities

Sensory-friendly activities offer many benefits for neurodiverse children. For starters, they can reduce anxiety. Too noisy or visually stimulating environments can make neurodiverse children feel uneasy or stressed. Sensory-friendly activities create a calm setting, helping to ease these feelings.

Another major benefit is the improvement in social skills. When children are comfortable, they are more likely to engage with others. Sensory-friendly activities provide a safe space where kids can interact without feeling overwhelmed.

Moreover, these activities often boost self-esteem. When children can participate in activities without sensory overload, they feel a sense of accomplishment. This can be a big confidence booster and positively impact their overall well-being.

How to Keep Kids Engaged All Summer Long?

Whether you plan to visit places or stay at home, this list gives you many fun, sensory-friendly ideas to beat summer boredom, and you don’t need to break the bank either! Check out the list below with thirty fun ideas to get you started.

Sensory Seeking Water Fun Ideas:

Water play is a fantastic way to keep kids cool in the summer while providing soothing sensory input. The feel of water can be calming for many neurodiverse children, helping them to relax and have fun.

  • Run through the sprinklers
  • Take Swim lessons
  • Visit a local splash pad (early morning hours to avoid crowds)
  • Have a water balloon fight
  • Fill a kiddie pool with water and add ice cubes and large ice blocks to pretend it is the Arctic Ocean
  • Use glow sticks in a swimming pool at night
  • Water plants with the hose
  • Play with a water table and fill it with your favorite toys
  • Go fishing
  • Go tubing or canoeing
Playing with a water table

Sensory-Friendly Places To Go:

Visiting new and familiar places can be a wonderful way for neurodiverse children to experience summer. These activities can be calming and stimulating, providing just the right balance for kids with sensory sensitivities. Here are some fun, sensory-friendly activities to consider:

  • Visit the local zoo
  • Go to a children’s museum
  • Walk to the library
  • Go berry picking
  • Road trip to visit a relative
  • Go to the farmer’s market
  • Visit a lake or beach
  • Hike a nature trail
  • Tour new playgrounds
  • Ride a kid’s train
Watching a lion at the zoo

Sensory-Friendly Activities At Home Fun:

When the summer heat becomes too much or unpredictable weather keeps you indoors, plenty of sensory-friendly activities keep neurodiverse kids engaged and calm. These activities cater to sensory needs and allow for creative expression, relaxation, and fun.

  • Make an indoor obstacle course with all your OT equipment
  • Paint rocks together and hide them in the neighborhood
  • Play with bubbles
  • Make a banana split together
  • Go for a walk around the neighborhood
  • Family game night
  • Play with kinetic sand or playdoh
  • Make sensory playboxes
  • Plant seeds or flowers
  • Fly a kite
Playing with playdough

Tips for Planning Sensory-Friendly Activities

Planning sensory-friendly activities for neurodiverse children can make a world of difference. The goal is to ensure fun and enjoyment while respecting each child’s unique needs. Here are some practical tips to help you get started.

Understanding Your Child’s Needs

Every child is different, and understanding your child’s specific sensory needs is essential. Is your child sensitive to loud sounds, bright lights, or certain textures? Knowing these details can help you plan better.

Take time to observe and note what triggers your child. Does your child cover their ears in noisy places or avoid certain textures? These observations will guide you in choosing activities that are enjoyable and non-stressful.

Communicate with your child as much as possible. Use simple questions to understand their preferences. For example, ask, “Do you like it when we go to the park?” or “Does loud music bother you?” This empowers them to voice their likes and dislikes.

Creating a Sensory Toolkit

A sensory toolkit is a collection of items that can help your child feel comfortable and secure during activities. Having these items on hand can make outings less stressful and more enjoyable.

Items to consider for your sensory toolkit:

  • Noise-canceling headphones: These can help block out overwhelming sounds.
  • Sunglasses: Useful for children sensitive to bright lights.
  • Fidget toys: Help keep hands busy and minds calm.
  • Comfort items: A favorite toy or stuffed animal can provide a sense of security.
  • Snacks and water: Keeping your child well-fed and hydrated can prevent meltdowns.
  • Visual schedules: A simple chart or picture schedule can help your child know what to expect.

Having this toolkit ready can make a big difference in your child’s comfort during outings.

Flexibility and Patience

Planning sensory-friendly activities requires flexibility and patience. Even the best-laid plans can go awry, so staying adaptable is crucial. Be prepared to change plans if needed. If your child becomes overwhelmed, leaving early or trying a different activity is okay. Remember, the goal is for your child to have a positive experience, even if that means modifying your plans.

Stay patient and give your child time to adjust. New experiences can be challenging, so allow extra time for transitions. Celebrate small victories, like trying a new activity or adapting to a new environment.

These tips can help make planning sensory-friendly activities smoother and more enjoyable for both you and your child. Understanding their needs, creating a sensory toolkit, and staying flexible will ensure a fun and stress-free summer.

Making Summer Memories

As we approach summer, it is important to slow down and enjoy the break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. If some places listed do not have sensory-friendly days, it is important to advocate and ask businesses to make accommodations when possible. So, as you dive into this sensory-friendly summer bucket list, remember that you’re not just making memories but also fostering a culture of acceptance and inclusion too.

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