Ah, the season change—a time when even the most well-adjusted of us can feel a little off-kilter. Here in Washington, the daylight hours shrink dramatically from a whopping 15 hours of daylight at summer solstice to a measly 7 and a half hours at winter solstice, and as a therapist, I’ve seen firsthand how this impacts my clients. Case in point? The moment they flop onto my couch, eyelids heavy, wondering why they’re so tired. The culprit? The subtle shift from long, sunny days to the moody grays and drizzles of fall and winter.
For neurodivergent teens and children, these seasonal shifts can be even more challenging. However, with understanding and the right strategies with how to support neurodivergent kids with season changes, you can help your child transition smoothly through this time.
Understanding the Challenges with Neurodivergent Kids with Season Changes
Neurodivergent children—whether they are on the autism spectrum, have ADHD, or present other unique neurological variations—often face specific challenges during seasonal changes. Here are some issues they might encounter:
- Disrupted Sleep-Wake Cycles: The reduction in daylight hours can interfere with their internal clocks, leading to sleep difficulties.
- Sensory Overload: Changes in weather, such as rain or snow, can heighten sensory sensitivities.
- Routine Disturbances: Alterations in daily schedules due to less daylight can spur anxiety.
- Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD): Less sunlight can exacerbate mood disorders.
- Reduced Social and Physical Activities: Colder, darker days can limit outdoor play, impacting social interactions and physical health.
Practical Tips for Navigating Seasonal Changes with Neurodivergent Children
- Establish a Consistent Daily Routine
Consistency is key. Set regular sleep and wake times to help regulate their internal clock. Research has shown that maintaining a routine provides stability and comfort for neurodivergent children.
- Create a Sensory-Friendly Environment
A calming environment can work wonders. Consider noise-canceling headphones, dimmable lights, and weighted blankets to reduce sensory overload. Experts in child development emphasize the importance of sensory-friendly spaces for emotional regulation.
- Introduce Engaging Indoor Activities
Keep them active with new indoor activities tailored to their interests. This could mean anything from arts and crafts to building projects, ensuring a predictable and enjoyable routine.
- Ensure Adequate Vitamin D Intake
With less sunlight, the risk of vitamin D deficiency increases, which can affect mood. Talk to your healthcare provider about supplements or vitamin D-rich foods to support their mental health.
- Maximize Daylight Exposure
Encourage outdoor activities during the brightest parts of the day. Even a short walk can boost mood and energy levels by increasing exposure to natural light. They also have “happy lights” on the market where you can have your kid or teen sit in front of it for a few minutes a day in the morning to support their brain waking up.
- Foster Social Connections
Combat isolation with virtual meetups or indoor group activities. Staying connected with friends and family can provide essential support and engagement.
- Seek Professional Support
If you notice signs of SAD or worsening mental health, don’t hesitate to seek help from professionals. Early intervention can provide coping strategies and ensure your child receives the care they need.
Expert Insights on Neurodivergent Kids with Season Changes
Leading psychologists highlight that neurodivergent children are particularly sensitive to environmental changes (Gentil-Gutiérrez et al., 2021). They recommend a holistic approach combining routine, sensory balance, and social interaction to foster well-being during seasonal transitions (Izuno-Garcia, McNeel, & Fein, 2023). Importantly, awareness and proactive strategies can make a significant difference (McCera et al., 2024). Remember to reach out for support if needed, and prioritize self-care to manage your own emotional well-being (Chafouleas et al., 2020). Together, we can help our children thrive through every season. So keep engaging them with activities they enjoy, ensure adequate nutrition and sunlight exposure, stay connected with loved ones, and seek professional help if necessary (Sullivan & Weller, 2019). With these strategies in place, you can help your child navigate the ups and downs of seasonal transitions with resilience and positivity.
Conclusion
While the seasonal transition can be challenging, you are not alone. By incorporating these strategies, you can help your neurodivergent child adjust more smoothly. Remember, supporting your child through these changes is a shared journey, one where empathy, patience, and understanding are invaluable companions.
For personalized guidance, consider reaching out to us at Connect Counseling who can tailor strategies to your child’s unique needs. Schedule your free consultation here! Together, we can make this seasonal shift a smoother ride for both you and your child.
References
- Izuno-Garcia, A. K., McNeel, M. M., & Fein, R. H. (2023). Neurodiversity in Promoting the Well-Being of Children on the Autism Spectrum. Child Care in Practice, 29(1), 54–67. https://doi.org/10.1080/13575279.2022.2126436
- Gentil-Gutiérrez, A., Cuesta-Gómez, J. L., Rodríguez-Fernández, P., & González-Bernal, J. J. (2021). Implication of the sensory environment in children with autism spectrum disorder: Perspectives from school. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 18(14), 7670.
- Mercera, G., Kalis, T., Vervoort-Schel, J., & Moonen, X. (2024). In the Eye of the Beholder: Visualizing Strengths, Burdens and Desires Through the Lens of Neurodivergent Children, Their Parents, and Professionals Using the Yucel Method. Advances in Neurodevelopmental Disorders, 1-15.
- Chafouleas, S. M., Iovino, E. A., & Koriakin, T. A. (2020). Caregivers of children with developmental disabilities: Exploring perceptions of health-promoting self-care. Journal of Developmental and Physical Disabilities, 32(6), 893-913.
- Mullins, L. (2024). Supporting Neurodivergent Children and Families: A Practitioner’s Guide. Taylor & Francis.
