The Ultimate Bucket List of Sensory Summer Activities
For some children with autism, sensory sensitivities can take the joy out of typical summer activities. Summer break is something your child should look forward to! That's why it's important to find activities that help them to engage with their surroundings in a way that’s comfortable and inviting for them. We made this handy Summer Bucket List, so your family can stay focused on creating magical memories that will last a lifetime.
Ready to check out the activities? Read on to discover the fun!
6 Sensory Summer Activities for Children With Autism
1. Prepare a Picnic
Nothing says quality time in a relaxed atmosphere like going on a picnic. Enjoying a meal with your family in nature is the perfect way to spend an afternoon. (Bonus points for the fresh air and outdoor time.) Find a quiet location with few distractions and bring along your favorite drinks and snacks. Make sure to bring plenty of water and sunblock!
2. Jump in the Pool
Swimming is another fantastic sensory summer activity to add to your bucket list. For some children or teens with autism, the feeling of water can provide a calming, enjoyable sensation. This therapeutic activity can also encourage their coordination and social skills. Before grabbing your goggles, review the pool rules and expectations so they can splash away safely.
3. Make Your Own Bubbles
There are few summer moments more iconic than the whimsical excitement of blowing bubbles as the sun goes down. Plus it’s a super simple and affordable activity to put together. Make your own bubble bonanza with this easy recipe:
1 c. water
¼ c. vegetable glycerin
¼ c. liquid castile soap
Bubble wands
Mix water and castile soap until combined. Add the glycerin and stir until thoroughly mixed.
Voilá! Just like that it’s bubble time. You can also add essential oils or food coloring to amp up the bubble experience (be on the lookout for staining!)
4. Host a Tie-Dye Party
Perhaps the grooviest way to spend an afternoon, making tie-dye can be a fun and engaging sensory activity for children and teens with autism. From mixing colors to crafting a unique design, tie-dying offers endless possibilities for creative expression. Buy a premade kit online or from your local craft store and something to protect your clothes and workspace. You can scout your closets for old clothes to bring back to life or grab a handful of plain white t-shirts while you’re picking up the rest of your supplies.
Pro tip: → Natural fabrics like cotton or linen will absorb the dye better and create more vibrant colors!
5. Mix Up a Batch of Popsicles
Making popsicles is one of the tastiest and easiest sensory summer activities for everyone in the family to enjoy. (Plus, it’s one of our favorite ways to cool off in the sweltering Arizona heat.) From pouring and mixing, to playing with different ingredients, popsicles can provide a variety of sensory opportunities. Grab a few silicone molds, your favorite fresh fruit, and get in on the squishing action! Here’s a delicious DIY recipe to get you started:
¾ c. juice or coconut water
2 ½ c. fruit
2 tbsp honey
½ tsp lime juice
For a super creamy summer treat, combine your popsicle mixture in a blender with a scoop of ice and pulse until smooth.
6. Explore Your Local Community
Summer vacation is the perfect time to explore your neighborhood and experiences that may not be available year-round. Many businesses have started to incorporate sensory days or activities into their schedule. Talk to your child and see if there is a place they’ve been interested in checking out, like a zoo or upcoming museum exhibit. Call ahead or visit their website to see if they currently offer reserved experiences for individuals with sensory sensitivities. If they don’t, it’s never too late to encourage them to start!
Looking for local sensory-friendly activities in the East Valley community? Gilbert Parks and Recreation recently received recognition as a Certified Autism Center™ for undergoing training and certification to create more inclusive guidelines for their parks.
Download their sensory guide here.
As a parent of a child with autism, you know that summer break can have its challenges, but you also know it's possible to help your child navigate those changes like a superstar. Brainstorm and schedule your activities in advance to make the sunny season a relaxing and unforgettable vacation for everyone!
Looking for even more sensory summer activities? Check out this post.