by: Carla D’Imperio, Family Support Specialist.

We gathered your ideas to help make the most of breaks from school and programs.

We know breaks from school and programs can be trying for all parents and caregivers, but the challenge can be even greater when you are taking care of a child with Phelan-McDermid syndrome. Some of our community members asked for ideas, so we surveyed our families and here is what they came up with. If you have more ideas to add, please click here to fill out our survey and we will update the list. We hope this resource will help keep the whole family happy over break!

Try to keep some structure in place!

• Create a daily routine and daily schedule.
• Post a calendar and schedule for break and talk to your child about it.
• Use social stories for changes in routine or special events.

Get out there and explore your community!

• Go shopping, even if you don’t buy anything.
• Go to the library.
• Check out the holiday events in your community.
• Go to the YMCA or local rec center.

Bundle up and get outside!

• Go on walking trails.
• Take bikes rides.
• If you live in a warm climate, go to the beach.
• Go to light displays, either driving or walking through.
• Spend the afternoon at the park or playground.

Take advantage of what’s free!

• Walk around PetSmart or other pet stores.
• Go on car rides around your community or plan a long car ride to somewhere new.
• Walk around the mall and explore.

Have fun at home!

• Make indoor obstacle courses at home.
• Climb on Nugget couches.
• Do sensory activities (water play, sensory bins, glow sticks in the bathtub, play dough).
• Have a cozy holiday movie day.
• Watch television (Mr. Maker is a favorite!).

Plan a special outing or two!

• Go on outings in the community (bowling, mini golf, arcade).
• Go to a children’s museum or other museums (ask about autism days and free days, some public libraries have museum passes you can check out).
• Visit the zoo or aquarium (sometimes there are autism days).
• Go to a trampoline park.
• Take your child on day trips from their group home.

Lean on your support network!