“Ever planned a trip to the beach only to have your child freaking out over sandy feet, spilt ice creams and slimy seaweed?”
As Fiona Rattray, Parent Training & Information Specialist with PILS, points out: Summer is a mixed bag for parents of children with disabilities. We cherish the extra time with our kids, but changes in routine, 10 weeks away from school, and the loss of built-in supports can create real challenges for the whole family.”
For many families, summer brings excitement, freedom, and opportunities to make memories together. But for parents and caregivers of children with disabilities, it can also bring uncertainty, stress, and a long list of questions.
What happens when the structure and supports of the school year suddenly disappear?
How do you balance work, caregiving, therapies, activities, and downtime?
How do you create a summer that is both enjoyable and manageable for your child, and for yourself?
These are challenges many families face, yet they are often overlooked in conversations about summer break.
The reality is that every child is different, and every family navigates summer in their own way. What works beautifully for one child may be completely overwhelming for another. Changes in routine, sensory sensitivities, social expectations, transitions between activities, and reduced access to school-based services can all impact how a child experiences the summer months.
WILC is committed to giving families and individuals access to information, resources, and supportive conversations that help them make informed decisions, and empowering them to build the lives they want—through every season of life and every stage of the journey.
Join Our June 10 Webinar
Empowerment can start with learning practical strategies that can make the months ahead feel a little more manageable.
That’s why we’re pleased to offer our upcoming webinar, “Navigating Summer Break: A Framework for Families of Children with Disabilities,” on June 10, presented by Fiona Rattray and Denise Green.
Designed specifically for families preparing for the transition into summer, this webinar will explore common challenges, practical approaches, and ways to help children thrive while supporting the wellbeing of the entire family.
Whether you’re already making summer plans or simply trying to figure out where to begin, we invite you to join us for this important conversation.
Webinar Presenters Denise Green and Fiona Rattray
