An 11-year-old boy I worked with began to unravel at the start of June because he was missing his routine. His day had become more unpredictable. Understandably, family life was a little more spontaneous than his autism class, and there were lots of things to juggle at home.
Lots of kids (and adults) need structure and predictability to feel safe.
Tips:
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Create a Bridge Week
Don’t jump straight from school to spontaneous home life. Plan a buffer few days of calm, light structure, and favourite activities.
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Visual Transition Calendar/Plan
Use a countdown or visual calendar showing the last days of school and the first days of summer. Fill in any known comforting events (visits, routines, etc.).
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Narrate What’s Changing
Prepare your child’s brain with clear, repetitive language:
💬 “This week is the last week with Mrs Brown. Then comes our quiet week, then summer.”
I look forward to speaking with you at 4pm today, when we will be talking about using how to set up your bridge week at the start of the summer holidays.
Remember... you got this. You are doing a good job.
Kindest regards,
Your Child and Adolescent Psychologist,
Lorraine Xx
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