As the school year wraps up and summer begins, many families look forward to longer days and more relaxed routines. But for Autistic children, this change in structure can bring challenges, especially when it comes to emotional regulation.
Transitions, even positive ones like summer vacation, can create anxiety and dysregulation. That’s why preparing for summer with emotional regulation in mind is one of the most powerful ways to support your child’s wellbeing.
Why Emotional Regulation is Extra Important During Summer
Autistic children often thrive on routine, predictability, and clear expectations. Summer can disrupt all of that: school is out, familiar supports may be unavailable, and schedules can be inconsistent. Emotional regulation helps children cope with these shifts by giving them tools to manage stress, understand their emotions, and recover from overwhelming situations.
Emotional regulation isn’t just about staying calm, it’s about helping children feel safe, understood, and supported while navigating life’s ups and downs. Here are some simple, effective strategies to create a more peaceful, predictable summer.
Create a Summer Schedule with Visual Supports
Even if summer is less structured than the school year, creating a predictable rhythm can reduce anxiety. Use a visual schedule to map out the day, including meals, playtime, rest, and outings. Autistic children often feel more in control when they can see what’s coming next.
Try using pictures or icons for activities, and include a “change card” so your child learns that plans may shift, but with support, they’ll be okay.
Build In Regulation Breaks Before They’re Needed
One of the most effective ways to support emotional regulation is to be proactive, offering children space and tools to stay regulated before they become overwhelmed.
Plan for:
- Movement breaks (jumping, stretching, dancing).
- Quiet time in a cozy, sensory-friendly space.
- Breathing or mindfulness activities (blowing bubbles, deep breaths, sensory jars).
These can be built into the daily routine, just like meals or playtime.
Prepare for Outings with a “Regulation Kit”
Outings to the park, attractions, or family gatherings are common in the summer, but they can be unpredictable and overstimulating. Prepare a small regulation kit to bring along, filled with sensory tools your child finds calming.
Ideas to include:
- Noise-cancelling headphones.
- Chewy necklace or fidget toy.
- Sunglasses or a hat for light sensitivity.
- Comfort items (stuffed animal, photo, or calming scent).
Giving your child access to these tools can help them self-regulate on the go.
Practice Co-Regulation Daily
Children develop emotional regulation through their relationships. Co-regulation—the process of soothing and supporting children through emotional experiences—is a vital step in helping them build the skills they need to self-regulate over time.
That might look like:
- Sitting close and breathing together.
- Naming and validating your child’s emotions (“You look frustrated. I’m here.”).
- Staying calm even when your child is upset.
As you co-regulate, your child feels safe and understood, and over time, they internalize these calming strategies.
Celebrate Small Wins
Every child’s regulation journey is unique. Some days may be smooth, others more challenging. Celebrate small successes such as your child asking for a break, trying a new tool, or recovering more quickly from a meltdown.
Acknowledging these moments helps build confidence and reinforces the skills you’re nurturing.
You’re Not Alone
Supporting an Autistic child during the summer can be joyful and challenging. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, please reach out. At the Children’s Autism Services, we’re here to partner with you, through every season.