Supporting Your Child Through the School Holidays

For many families, the summer break is a welcome chance to rest and recharge, but for children and young people with Fragile X Syndrome or additional needs, the long stretch without school routine can be unsettling. Changes in structure, reduced access to support staff, and unfamiliar places or holidays can lead to increased anxiety, sleep disruptions, or emotional dysregulation.

Here are some ideas to try to help make the most of the summer months, while hopefully keeping stress to a minimum.

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Keep Some Structure

Many children with Fragile X thrive on routine. Try to keep parts of the school day pattern in place, such as:-

• Regular wake-up and mealtimes

• Daily visual schedule (using pictures or symbols)

• Consistent bedtime routines

You don’t need to replicate school at home—but a loose plan for the day can offer a sense of security and predictability.

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Create a Weekly Planner Together

A visual weekly planner on the fridge or wall can help children know what to expect. Include:

• Outings (even simple ones like “park” or “library”)

• Home activities (baking, paddling pool, crafts)

• Rest days or quiet time

Using pictures or symbols can help if your child has communication difficulties.

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Prepare for Changes in Advance

If you're planning a holiday or day out:

• Use social stories or visual sequences to explain what will happen

• Show photos of where you're going

• Practise key phrases or signs (e.g. “toilet,” “finished,” “quiet time”)

You can also pack a “comfort kit” with calming items like headphones, snacks, fidget toys or a favourite object.

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Plan for Sensory Needs

Summer often means new sensory experiences, hot weather, busy places, noisy events. These can be overwhelming.

You might find it helpful to:

• Use cooling aids like fans, wet cloths or cold water sprays

• Offer quiet spaces or ear defenders during noisy outings

• Choose less crowded times for visits

Some children benefit from deep pressure activities (like firm hugs) to stay regulated.

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Support Communication

Children may find it harder to express themselves in new or unpredictable situations.

You could try:

• Offering choices visually (e.g. showing two pictures to choose from)

• Using “first/then” prompts: “First lunch, then iPad”

• Reinforcing key words with signs, pictures or gestures

Keep language simple and give time to process and respond.

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Take Care of Yourself Too

School holidays can be intense—especially if your child needs close supervision. Try to:

• Ask for help where possible (friends, family, short breaks)

• Take turns with a partner or family member for rest

• Lower your expectations—keeping everyone safe and cared for is enough

It’s okay to say no to things that feel too much.

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Make Space for Joy

Summer doesn't have to be filled with big adventures. Some of the best moments can come from:

• A picnic in the garden

• Watching clouds

• Blowing bubbles

• Playing music and dancing around the living room

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Need support?

We’re happy to help with visuals or social stories—just let us know if you’d like support with these.

If things feel especially tough over the summer, or if you simply need someone to talk to, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.

📧Email us: info@fragilex.org.uk