Managing the School Holidays

School holidays can be a blessing and a curse for parents and children alike!

The summer holidays might be more difficult due to their extended length. We asked some of our team members who have children with an autism diagnosis, for their tips and ideas that they have found worked for their family, keeping everyone on track when their regular schedule isn’t in place.

Holidays may be a positive for your child, with a break from the demands of the classroom and playground – the Queensland government’s autism hub has a great resource including some useful templates you can download School holidays (education.qld.gov.au)

Tip 1

Cam – Team Leader

We have found that going to day programs really helps our kids, especially those programs tailored around kids with additional support needs

Tip 2

Amy – Accounts Administrator

We use ‘Social Stories’ (visual aids) that you can easily change to place in activities – our children are old enough to read so we use our walk-in pantry door painted in chalk paint and list the days of the week and what is happening. When school holidays roll around, we update the information and everyone knows what’s going on when. 

Now our son is getting older he is starting to check out the digital calendar on my phone to keep on top of things. The visual notices are really important for him – he needs to see it there and then he can understand what is coming next. More certainty, less surprises.

Tip 3

Mel – Team Leader

Eve loves going to Youth Connections in the holidays – they bring out a schedule in advance and we choose what she’d like to do – planning ahead – then write it on the calendar.  At 17, it’s important for Eve to know well in advance and plan it out in her head. She loves being with her own peer group so this is really important.

 Wishing all the parents and carers (and kids) a safe, happy and fun holiday season.