Spring break is a time for students and teachers to relax and recharge. There are many benefits to this much-anticipated vacation, including opportunities to enjoy time and make special memories with friends and family.
Spring break also is a time when students with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families face many stressors, such as breaks in routine, impact on progress and limited access to resources and supports.
Whether creating new traditions or taking a break from daily expectations, our hope is for each and every family to relax and recharge while minimizing stressors. Here are some tips for planning a successful spring break that maximizes fun and ensures a smooth, stress-free experience.
Plan ahead
- Find where routine can fit into your day-to-day.
- Create a schedule (pictures, icons, or a written itinerary) to outline each day.
- Give your child and family time to adjust to changes by discussing plans beforehand, if appropriate, and starting new routines when feasible.
- Use timers or countdowns to prepare for transitions between activities.
- Offer choices where possible (e.g., “Would you like to go to the park or the library?”).
Maintain a balance between fun and rest
- Overscheduling can lead to meltdowns and stress. Build in quiet breaks and find the right balance between structure and relaxation for your family.
- Have a designated “calm zone” at home or in public spaces for when your child needs downtime.
- Choose activities that are sensitive to your child’s preferences and comfort levels, whether that’s physical activity or quiet downtime.
Choose destinations welcoming of neurodiversity
- Consider activities that match your child’s sensory preferences: Low-sensory activities, such as nature walks, puzzles, sensory bins or swimming; and high-energy activities, such as trampoline parks (with sensory hours), hiking or biking.
- Bring noise-canceling headphones or sensory toys if visiting loud places.
- Create a “Sensory Pack” and include favorite snacks, fidgets, weighted blankets, and any comfort items.
- If traveling, bring familiar items to make new environments feel safe.
- Look for sensory-friendly attractions like: zoos and aquariums with quiet zones, museums with special sensory hours; and activities or events that offer sensory and behavioral accommodations.
Flexibility
- Have a backup plan in case of bad weather or sensory overload.
- Use social stories, video models, or role-playing to help your child prepare for new experiences.
Keep schedules consistent
- Sudden changes in routine can be stressful. Try to keep mealtimes and bedtimes close to normal, particularly as return to “return to school” routines approach.
- Many thrive on routine, so plan activities in advance.
- Use a visual calendar or countdown: Show your child how many days are left until the break ends, to help prepare for the transition back to school.
Team up with others
- Work with other families to create resources or find resources in the community.
As a time for reset and recharge approaches, focus on the positive aspects of the break. Celebrate moments of success throughout each day, whether it’s your child managing a transition well or family members enjoying quiet time together.
Thank you to Alex Cicero, Becky Barall, Tamara Hariri, Kim Falk, Jackie Hankins, Todd Owen, Rachel Ray, Andrew Sodawasser and Melonie Welsh for their insightful thoughts and comments, helping to shape these recommendations.