Your kiddos are getting ready for summer, woohoo! They are probably excited to be out of school and you are probably racking your brain for activities that will keep them stimulated and engaged throughout the summer. Kiddos with ADHD often complain about being bored (check out our boredom blog). While they may be enrolled in summer camps, when they get home, they may still be overexcited or need stimulation. It can be frustrating to constantly keep kids entertained, so planning activities throughout the summer will be helpful for kiddos as well as parents. Children with ADHD thrive with anything that keeps their interest, but this looks different for every individual. The component that allows them to hyperfocus is a “superpower” that allows them to direct their energy on things they enjoy. This not only prevents boredom, but it also excites them! It helps to incorporate their passions into daily tasks and activities to keep them engaged.
Aside from active and stimulating camps, regularly scheduled play dates with friends are very beneficial to many children. These play dates allow kiddos to continue to grow school friendships over the summer. For some extremely social individuals, meaningful friendships are a huge component to their overall health and wellbeing, so losing those connections, even temporarily, can create a level of sadness. Whether it is through play dates or other forms of connection, encourage your kiddos to remain in contact with close friends throughout the summer.
Maintaining routines in the summer will continue to benefit your kiddos as well because it will prevent an over-abundance of technology use. This means continuing limits on technology throughout the summer. Yes, it is completely fine that they are given more freedom, but freedom still warrants limits and boundaries. Bedtimes are also extremely valuable for your ADHD kiddos during the summer. They need restful sleep and plenty of it! Even if they are in summer camps, they need their sleep to fully enjoy the experiences and reap the benefits. Lastly, nutrition-wise, if your kiddos struggle with sugar or other foods, continue to limit those foods.
Helpful tips:
- Keep the routines: This reduces behaviors and maintains boundaries and expectations.
- Always prepare for new experiences- Ex: New camps or new vacations
Prepare for the possibility of difficult transitions ahead of new experiences and come up with strategies in advance. - Reminders are key: Because routines will change, reminders are even more necessary
- Maintain some goals for the summer – Academic or personal – which will make the transition back to school easier
- Discuss medication adjustments (if necessary): Have a conversation and weigh the pros and cons.