Summer Time Ideas!! by Ms. Emily

Summer is almost here! While we all look forward to the warm weather, the lack of routine and structure can be overwhelming for children. As an occupational therapist, I know that play is the primary occupation of a child.  Play is therapy and therapy is play! That being said, we encourage play activities and outings that are designed to challenge our children, while helping them emotionally, physically, and mentally.  Here are some tips and activities to help keep your summer fun while keeping your child stimulated:  

• Make a schedule! Look at the calendar together and make a routine for your family. Let your child help in choosing activities. This can include fun activities and daily needs such as chores and errands. Having things written down helps with predictably for our children. Did someone say Water Play Wednesday? Scavenger Hunt Saturday? 
• Explore playgrounds around your city – or even new cities if you’re family enjoys traveling. Playgrounds provide our children with the ability to explore new environments while providing their bodies with vestibular and proprioceptive input; both which help our bodies remain regulated.  
• Cook! With what feels like more time in our day, we may be able to incorporate our children in daily meal prep and recipe planning. This gets our minds moving while also incorporating sensory play – a two for one special!  
• Check locally for sensory friendly times and opportunities in the community; This allows our children to participate in activities that may typically be overwhelming. See below for a few in our local community:  

Hands on Children’s Museum: Sensory Friendly Hour: Sunday’s 9am-10am 
Point Defiance Zoo: https://www.pdza.org/plan-your-day/sensory-inclusive/ 

• Lastly, my personal favorite and most recommended summer activity: SWIMMING!  Swimming is a great activity for many reasons. It promotes sensory integration, motor planning, bilateral coordination, social participation, play skills, and overall strength! 

 
Most importantly, HAVE FUN! Summer is a great time to make memories with our children – some they will remember forever!  
 
For more summer ideas (the list is endless, truly), ask your therapist and we will be more than happy to provide ideas. We have lots of tricks up our sleeves. Happy Summer!! 

​