Let's be real. Screens can take away from quality time, fun in the sun, and the joy of being in the outdoors. Not only does our health experience compromise, but so do our relationships. How do we connect in the summer, and what can we do to take advantage of the outdoors with our neurodiverse family and friends? The dads discuss strategies, and provide some of their favorite activities for the summer, as well as other times of the year.
Structure and Planning:
- Create a Schedule: While you can ditch the super strict routine, having a loose framework for the day with planned activities helps kids with ADHD feel secure and know what to expect. This can include outdoor play time, creative projects, chores, and downtime for reading.
- Involve your child: Let your child participate in planning some of the activities. This gives them a sense of ownership and makes them more likely to be excited.
Embrace the Outdoors:
- Nature Play: Parks, playgrounds, and backyards are full of opportunities for exploration, climbing, running, and imaginative play. Pack a picnic lunch and make a day of it!
- Water Activities: Beat the heat with sprinklers, slip-and-slides, or a trip to the pool or beach.
Creative Activities:
- Arts and Crafts: Stock up on art supplies like paints, construction paper, and playdough. Channel their energy into creating masterpieces!
- Building and Making: Legos, building blocks, or even cardboard boxes can become anything from spaceships to robots.
- Fort Building: Sheets, blankets, and pillows turn into epic forts for reading, playing, or just relaxing.
Active Play:
- Sports and Games: Backyard games like frisbee, tag, or jump rope get them moving. Consider enrolling them in a sports camp or league.
- Bike Rides and Scootering: Exploring the neighborhood on wheels is a great way to burn energy and have fun.
Other Ideas:
- Board Games and Puzzles: Classic board games and challenging puzzles are stimulating and provide quality family time.
- Themed Days: Have a pirate day, a dinosaur day, or a space exploration day. Let their imagination run wild with costumes and themed activities.
- Volunteering or Helping Others: Helping at a local animal shelter, community garden, or food bank can give them a sense of purpose and responsibility.
- Camping: If you're feeling adventurous, a camping trip is a chance to unplug and connect with nature.
Remember:
- Be Patient: There will be bumps along the road. Be prepared with some alternative activities if something doesn't hold their interest.
- Celebrate Successes: Acknowledge their efforts and good behavior, especially when they're struggling to stay engaged without technology.
- Make it Fun: Focus on creating positive memories and fostering a love for learning through play and exploration.
With a little planning and creativity, you can have a fantastic tech-free summer that your child with ADHD will love!
Some of our favorite things (that may involve some screen time):
- Magic Puzzles
- Osmo
- ABC Mouse
- Geocaching
- Hiking
- Camping
- Movie Night
- Biking
- Wiffle Ball
- Swimming
- Lemonade Stand
- Bake Sale
- Build Cardboard spaceship
- Imaginative play (create a dinosaur park with dinosaur toys)
Check out Screamfree Parenting for strategies on communicating in constructive ways as you work toward screen-free summertime with your family.
