Supporting Children With SEN In The School Holidays

11 AUGUST 2021

Planning school holidays for neurodivergent children can be challenging but rewarding with the right strategies. In this article, we offer practical tips to help families prepare, keep kids engaged, and manage energy levels. From setting clear rules to scheduling downtime, these ideas aim to create a smoother, more enjoyable holiday experience.

Discuss the house rules

Before going out or on holiday, learn the rules of your destination and explain them clearly to your child. This helps reduce anxiety, set clear expectations, and makes the visit smoother and more comfortable for your child.

Pack entertaining activities

If your child gets bored easily, bring along games and other fun activities to keep them engaged. Also pack quiet options like books, crayons, or devices with headphones for some calm, independent entertainment.

Give your child a job or task

It can be helpful for some children and young people to have a task to focus on during school holidays, especially tasks which involve an element of responsibility, reward, and that raise self-esteem.

For example, you might say, “If we can work together to clean the house this morning, we’ll pick out a film to watch together later”.

Have an escape plan

Before your child starts new or unfamiliar activities, talk with them about the importance of finding a quiet space if they need a break.

Dedicate time for physical activity

Exercise is very important for neurodivergent children. Make sure your child has plenty of chances to be active through regular exercise or sports during the school holidays. One key benefit is that it often helps improve their sleep.

Rehearse the ‘stop, relax, think’ technique

Some children will need to practice calming down at home before venturing out into holiday activities or days out without much structure. Rehearsing the technique with your child or role-playing a scenario that has given your child trouble in the past are both excellent strategies.

Don’t overstimulate

Too many activities can overstimulate a child, particularly a young person with ADHD. Decide which occasions are most important and don’t overload the schedule. Giving your child enough downtime between activities helps them stay calm and better manage their energy.

Make time to recharge

Children need time to recharge after lots of holiday activities, so build in downtime after each event. Discuss the need for downtime aloud to raise your child’s awareness of their own energy levels and needs.

School Holidays With Neurodivergent Children