Do Summer Activities Leave You Unprepared?

We are in the middle of a beautiful summer, complete with parties, barbecues, sleepovers, and amusement parks! This time is so exciting!

But some situations can leave you feeling unprepared when you have a child with special needs.  Enjoy your favorite summer activities with a few extra preparations.

Here are a few suggestions:

1. Choose your sunscreen wisely. If you have a child who puts their fingers or hands in their mouths or who has sensory issues, be careful which sunscreen you choose. Consider safe paraben-free products, like Mustela SPF 50+ Mineral Sunscreen Lotion, Alba Botanica Very Emollient Sunscreen Kids Spray SPF 40, or The Honest Company Sunscreen Lotion SPF 30.  Check out this link for more safe sunscreen options https://www.ewg.org/sunscreen/best-kids-sunscreens/.
2. Consider a child harness. As controversial as backpack harnesses are, consider the pros and cons of a safety harness in crowded places like amusement parks or large parties. If it comes down to your child’s potential safety in a possible wandering situation, think about a temporary harness.
3. Assign a designated parent. If you are with a group of people or with your family, don’t assume that your wife or the child’s grandfather is watching. Communicate this to the person. And then take over in a bit.
4. Be sensitive to your child’s sensory needs. If your child doesn’t like loud noises, keep earplugs handy—especially if you might be watching fireworks. If your child hates being sticky, pack wet wipes and a change of clothes. Keep these triggers in mind and pack some things to soothe the senses that can trigger your child.

With a little preparation and a little planning, you and your family can avoid the difficulties and anxieties that can make a party or outing more tense and anxious. No matter where you go or what you do this summer, you can have a great time!