End of Term Fun: Keeping Our Children Regulated in the Last Week of Term
The last week of term! A time for excitement, anticipation, and sometimes, a little chaos. For our children, this unstructured period with events like sports days, school plays, and natural endings can be particularly challenging. Here are some tips to help your child stay regulated and make the most of this fun-filled week.
Structure in the Unstructured
• Maintain a Routine: Whilst school may be a bit looser, try to keep familiar routines at home. Consistent mealtimes, bedtimes, and wake-up times offer a sense of security.
• Plan Activities: Fill free time with planned activities you choose together or maintain the structure of after school clubs.
• Prepare for Events: Some children need lots of preparation for unplanned events, others respond better to a Now and Next approach. Talk about upcoming events like plays or sports days. Explain what to expect and help them manage their emotions, through lots of wondering aloud.
Communication is Key
• Open Communication: Talk openly about the end of term. Wonder aloud about how they are feeling and address any anxieties they may have about presentations or competitions. Remember, Name it to Tame It!
• Transitional objects: For many of our children, the end of the summer term can be a particularly anxious time. Many children will have left a previous school without warning and won’t have returned following the summer holidays. The use of a transitional object, like a small teddy, can be given from their teacher for them to bring back in September. This communicates that they will be returning in September.
Sensory Needs
• Sensory Breaks: If your child is easily overwhelmed by crowds or noise, schedule breaks during events.
• Fidget Tools: Provide fidget toys for your child to help them self-regulate if needed.
Remember:
• Be Flexible: There will likely be changes in schedules and routines. Be prepared to adapt and go with the flow.