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Vacations with children with ADHD and special needs: How to make the time pleasant and beneficial - including a printable vacation planner

Vacations are a time for freedom, new experiences, and family time, but for children with ADHD and special needs, these periods can be challenging. These children often face difficulties adapting to changes, and vacations can lead to feelings of anxiety, restlessness, and boredom. In this article, we will examine the child’s experiences, their needs during vacations, and suggest tools for parents to make this time pleasant and beneficial for the whole family.


What does the child experience during vacations?

Children with ADHD and special needs may experience a variety of emotions during vacations. Changes in the environment, routine, and activities can make them feel uncomfortable. They may experience:

Restlessness: The changes in environment and routine can lead to feelings of restlessness. These children may feel that the vacation is not going according to their expectations, which can lead to frustration.

Anxiety: Vacations may include encounters with new people, unfamiliar places, and different activities. All of these can cause anxiety and a sense of insecurity.

Boredom: Without structured planning or a variety of activities, children with ADHD may feel boredom, which can lead to undesirable behaviors.


What does the child need during the vacation?


To make the vacation pleasant and beneficial, it is important to understand the child’s needs:


A certain routine: Children with ADHD need some routine, even during vacations. Daily planning with fixed activities can help them feel more secure.

Varied activities: It’s important to include a variety of activities so that the child does not feel bored. Physical, creative, and social activities can be beneficial.

Quiet time: It is essential to allocate some quiet time during the day, allowing the child to relax and recover from the abundance of stimuli.

Emotional support: Children with special needs require emotional support. It’s important to listen to them, understand their emotions, and help them deal with challenges.


Tools for parents to make the vacation enjoyable


Planning ahead: Prepare a daily plan with a variety of activities, but keep it flexible. Planning in advance can help reduce anxiety and provide the child with a sense of security.

Talking with the child: Before the vacation, talk to the child about their expectations. Ask them about fears or concerns they might have and explain what will happen during the vacation.

Preparing an "emergency kit": Prepare a box with toys, books, or activities that can help the child calm down in case of restlessness or boredom.

Allocating time for physical activities: Include physical activities such as hikes, outdoor games, or creative workshops. Physical activity can improve mood and reduce stress.

Family time: Set time aside for family activities such as board games or movie nights. This can strengthen family bonds and provide the child with a sense of belonging.

Flexibility: Be ready to adjust the plan. If your child does not feel comfortable with a specific activity, be prepared to modify the schedule according to their needs.


Passover Vacation: Specialized planning for families


The upcoming Passover vacation is an excellent opportunity to plan diverse activities. During the three weeks of vacation, consider the following options:


Camps and after-school programs: Some children will enjoy camps offering tailored activities. It’s important to review the schedule and ensure it suits the child’s needs.

Family gatherings: Passover includes family gatherings, which can be a great time to strengthen relationships. However, make sure the child feels comfortable in the environment and that the gatherings are not too lengthy.

Trips: Spring is an ideal time for trips. Plan short trips to nearby sites so the child does not feel overly tired. It’s important to choose child-friendly locations that cater to special needs.

Vacations in the country or abroad: If you are planning a vacation, choose a destination that suits the child’s needs. A domestic vacation might be more convenient, but if you decide to travel abroad, ensure the child is familiar with the destination and that the plan is suitable for them.


Vacation Planning File Download


To assist you with vacation planning, I’ve prepared a downloadable vacation planning file.


Print the attached table in the file. This will allow you to easily work with it.


Activity planning:

In each date box, write down the planned activities for the children. This could include trips, family gatherings, creative workshops, camps, and more.

Make sure to include a variety of activities that suit your child’s needs, so the vacation will be enjoyable and beneficial.


Download the 2025 Passover Vacation Planning File




Vacations can be a wonderful time for families with children with ADHD and special needs, but they require special planning and understanding. By preparing in advance, listening to the child's needs, and allocating time for diverse activities, the vacation can become a pleasant and beneficial time for the entire family. Remember, the goal is not only to enjoy the vacation but also to strengthen family bonds and help the child feel safe and happy.






 

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Ilana Cahana 

Personalized Teaching | Parent Counseling and Guidance | ADHD | Integrative Coaching for Children and Teens | Lectures for Parents and Educational Staff

For contact and scheduling an appointment:  

Phone  0535453350  


 
 
 

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