Creating Inclusive Summer Fun Through Water Play, Field Trips, and Outdoor Games
Summer should be a time of joy and exploration. Still, for children with autism or sensory processing challenges, typical summer activities can feel overwhelming. The noise, unpredictability, bright sunlight, or even just the feel of sunscreen can all make what’s meant to be fun feel like a struggle. As educators, caregivers, and support staff, we can adapt summer activities to help every child feel safe, engaged, and included.
Here are three key areas to focus on: water play, field trips, and outdoor games, along with tips for making them accessible to children with sensory sensitivities and developmental delays.
Water Play Without the Worries
Water play is a beloved summer staple, but it can be stressful for children with autism who are sensitive to temperature changes, unexpected splashes, or the sounds of shouting and splashing.
Try this instead:
- Small group or solo time at a splash table, water beads station, or with a hose/sprinkler allows for more control and less overstimulation.
- Gradual exposure is key. Allow children to touch the water at their own pace. Some may prefer misting bottles over pools or hoses.
- Offer choices: letting the child decide whether to wear a swimsuit or keep on comfortable clothes can help reduce anxiety.
Create a safe space nearby with dry towels, a shade structure, and familiar items (like a favorite toy or a weighted lap pad) so they can take breaks and rejoin on their own terms. For sound-sensitive children, noise-reducing headphones can help make the experience more enjoyable.
Field Trips That Don’t Overwhelm
Field trips are often the highlight of the school year, but they can be daunting for children who struggle with transitions or sensory input.
Prepare in advance:
- Use social stories or visual schedules to help set expectations.
- Show photos of the destination and walk through what the day will look like.
- Practice in the classroom by role-playing parts of the trip—lining up, waiting for the bus, using a map, etc.
Pack sensory supports like fidgets, chewy necklaces, sunglasses, or ear protection. Designate a staff member to support students who need frequent breaks.
Partner with venues ahead of time. Some locations may offer sensory-friendly times or accommodations if you ask. If not, creating a quiet zone or identifying calm areas can go a long way.
Games That Invite Everyone In
Traditional outdoor games like tag or capture the flag may be too fast-paced, chaotic, or physically demanding for some students. But that doesn’t mean they can’t enjoy outdoor play!
Modify the structure:
- Use visual instructions and clear rules for games.
- Add turn-taking prompts and break games into small, achievable steps.
- Include cooperative games where children work together toward a goal, like building a fort or completing a scavenger hunt.
Focus on participation, not perfection. Some children may prefer to observe before joining in or participate in just one part of the activity. That’s okay! Look for opportunities to praise effort, encourage choice-making, and celebrate small wins.
Final Thoughts
Adapting summer activities doesn’t require expensive materials or complicated strategies. It just takes awareness, flexibility, and compassion. By making small shifts in how we structure and present activities, we can create experiences that all children can enjoy.
It’s also important to give yourself grace. Learning how to meet every child’s needs, especially when those needs vary widely, is a journey. You might try something that doesn’t work the first time, and that’s okay. Keep observing, keep adjusting, and keep connecting. With your support, summer fun can be truly inclusive.
Want more ideas for inclusive learning? Visit our Educator Portal for free resources, downloadable tools, and inspiration all year long.