Summer is a season full of possibilities for families to create special memories together. For families of children with autism, it can also bring unique challenges. Without the consistent structure of the school year, routines may shift, and progress made during Applied Behavior Analysis sessions can be disrupted. The good news is that with some planning and intentional strategies, you can keep your child’s skills growing while still enjoying a fun, relaxing summer. Here are some practical autism summer tips to help keep therapy on track.
Many children with autism thrive when they know what to expect. Setting a predictable routine during summer gives a sense of stability, even when the days are filled with different activities. Try mapping out your child’s day with a visual schedule that includes therapy time, active play, rest, and family outings. If you live in Colorado, you might plan a morning walk in a quiet park followed by indoor play before lunch. Simple structures like this support smoother transitions and reduce anxiety.
Summer offers endless opportunities to blend learning into fun. By using ABA principles during play, skills can be reinforced in natural, enjoyable settings:
When therapy goals are woven into activities your child enjoys, they stay engaged and motivated.
Special events, trips, or even a new playground might feel overwhelming at first. Preparing your child ahead of time helps them know what to expect. Social stories are a great tool—showing pictures and simple explanations about what the day will look like. If you plan a summer visit to the Denver Zoo, for example, a social story can outline the sights, sounds, and animal exhibits they may see. Practicing possible scenarios beforehand builds confidence and reduces stress.
Parental involvement is one of the biggest factors in keeping behavior support summer strategies effective. Stay connected with your ABA provider for quick check-ins and updates so you can adjust techniques as needed. Families who feel supported are more likely to maintain consistency, which helps children hold on to progress and even build new skills during the break.
One family turned weekly pool visits into a learning opportunity. They used a visual timer to help their child wait patiently for the slide and a simple reward chart for sharing toys. By the end of the summer, patience and cooperation had become everyday habits.
Summertime can be busy for parents. Make time for your own well-being so you can stay calm and consistent. This might mean arranging a short break during the week, connecting with other parents, or enjoying a hobby that recharges your energy.
Progress in summer does not have to be huge to be meaningful. Every easier transition, calmer outing, or successful new skill is a step forward. Celebrate those moments—they add up.
At Kiwi Kids ABA, we help families create behavior support summer plans that work for real life. Whether you want to adapt therapy goals for travel, outdoor play, or quieter days at home, we provide personalized guidance so your child’s ABA summer therapy continues to support growth and confidence. If you are ready to make this summer both fun and productive for your child, contact Kiwi Kids ABA today. Together, we can keep progress moving forward while making memories that last.
Our team of experienced therapists is dedicated to helping children with autism and other developmental disabilities reach their full potential. We are committed to creating a supportive and nurturing environment where every child can thrive.
Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can support your child's development.