Summers spell schedule changes, decrease in therapy hours, increased visits from relatives and a ‘to do’ list that can make a mom frazzled from more than the summer heat!  Here are some tips for moms of kids with disabilities to survive the summer.

Clean-up Game

This is a game you must teach your children. Play it several times a day so the game does not get too complicated. Each family member gets a turn to be the queen or king. Give the winner a crown, stand them on a chair, set the timer, and tell them to direct all the other players on what to clean.

When the timer goes off, their turn is over. As the mom, you are the last queen, that way you can ensure that everything gets picked up. If players need motivation — have a small treasure chest they can be rewarded from when the game is over.

Excursions

These get-aways are a necessity. You need to get your children out of the house and moving — even if it is just a quick jaunt up and down the street. This will help everyone to clear their mind, get some fresh air, and a little bit of exercise. If it is too hard for you to leave your house, at least go to the backyard or do some type of planned activity.

Summer camp

This can be expensive and also somewhat difficult if you have a child with special needs; however, look around at what is offered in your community — you may find something that works for you. If not, have your own summer camp.

Routine and schedules

Children like routine, routine helps prevent melt downs. Creating an actual calendar or schedule and posting it helps keep everyone on routine. In order for one to come by your house and see the happy kids, they must know that you are behind the curtain with a visual schedule checking off a list of preplanned activities to get you through the day. It is some work, but when you stay on schedule you have a nice day. You will have pretty good summer days with my kids.

Upcoming Events:

• Swimming at Austin Municipal Pool, Saturday, 7 to 8 p.m.

• People First Aktion Club Meeting, Tuesday, July 12, 6:30 to 8 p.m.