Surviving the Summer with Kids on the Autism Spectrum: Tips for Parents
Keeping kids busy - and out of trouble - during the summer is a challenging task for any parent. But doing the same with children on the autism spectrum is even more difficult. Parents need to consider the unique needs, capabilities and interests of their children with Asperger’s (AS) and High Functioning Autism (HFA) – all the while keeping them busy and pushing them towards their behavioral and social goals. Here are some ideas on how to achieve this balance: 1. An afternoon movie at a theater: AMC Entertainment offers special movie showings for families with AS and HFA kids. The lights stay on, the volume is kid-friendly, and they can get up, move around, and talk without being shushed by irritated movie-goers. It’s like home, only with a bigger screen. 2. Day camp: If you live in a larger metropolitan area, there may be day camps and other structured activities designed especially for kids with AS and HFA. These camps provide kids with some of the same routines th