Transitioning to Summer and How to Prepare for Summer Activities Like Camp or Family Vacation
Summer is a time for fun and relaxation for most children. But for homes with adoptive children or children with trauma, it can seem like a daunting task to provide a fun and positive summer experience. Questions about child care, vacations, summer camp, and more can arise, making it all feel confusing and scary, even for the parents!
How Transitions Affect Trauma
School provides structure for every child, and this is really important. Without structure, children can experience anxiety and exhibit challenging behaviors. This impact can be felt even more for children with trauma.
When this routine is disrupted, it’s important to understand that more meltdowns and arguments will happen during this time. Try to stick to as much of your school year routine as possible, such as morning routines, and providing stability by having mealtime at around the same time each day.
As a parent, it’s okay to feel your own emotions about this time of transition. If you feel things are getting overly challenging, be sure to reach out to your support groups or therapist to talk about your own feelings. Remember, when the adults are healthier mentally, we are better able to care for our children!
Summer Activities for Children with Trauma
Summer should be a fun and relaxing time. So here’s some tips and ideas to help make this summer a fun one.
Summer Camp: There are many camps that are specifically designed for foster kids, adoptive children, and children with trauma. These camps offer a break from stressful routines and a chance to learn new things and interact with other children like them. To find a camp like this, check in with your local social worker or adoption provider to see if there are any youth or family camps available in your area. No camps like this in your area? Decide whether a regular summer day camp is right for your child. Each child is different, so it may not be for all children with trauma. If you do decide to go with a regular summer day camp, be sure to work closely with the camp staff and administrators to ensure your child has a positive experience.
Family Vacation: If you decide to take a family vacation, be sure to prepare your child as much as possible for the changes they will experience. Before taking off, think through some of the following questions:
- How long will we be in the car/on the plane?
- What will we do first when we get to the hotel?
- What are the rules for being in the hotel?
- What will we eat?
- What comfort items do you want to bring?
Childcare: For working parents, summers present an additional challenge of finding care for your child with trauma during the workday. It’s important to thoroughly vet anyone who is taking care of your child with trauma. Even if you are relying on family, there must be ground rules for parenting styles so that everyone is on the same page and using the same parenting tactics. Don’t forget to reach out to your local social worker or adoption agency for their recommendations on childcare providers!
Key Takeaways
Summer can be a fun time, even for children with trauma. Be prepared for the upheaval of the initial transition into the summer break as routines are disrupted. Try to stick to as much of your routine as possible and to give both you and your child grace to help ease this transition time. Be sure to prepare for any fun activities, like summer camp or family vacation, by talking with your child about what to expect and by providing comfort items even when they are away from home.
