Spring Break Ideas: Making the Most of Your Time Together!
Spring break is a time for sunshine, fun, and family adventures; however, for parents of children on the autism spectrum, it can also bring challenges. Consequently, these families often have to navigate various obstacles while trying to enjoy the holiday. Changes in routine, unstructured time, and new environments may lead to stress, skill regression, or an increase in challenging behaviors.
At SuperKids ABA, we understand how important structure, predictability, and sensory-friendly experiences are for your child’s well-being. Whether you’re planning a staycation or, alternatively, looking for autism-friendly activities in Florida, we’ve got you covered with practical ideas. Specifically, these suggestions aim to help make spring break a time of joy, connection, and growth for your family.
Spring Break Fun: Where to Go & What to Do in Florida
Florida is full of sensory-friendly attractions and quiet, supportive environments designed for neurodivergent children. From nature escapes to hands-on museums, here are some fantastic places to explore:
- Spring Break Olympics at SuperKids:
📍 North Miami Beach, FL
Join us for a fun-filled spirit week toward the end of the month! Our team will be hosting engaging activities designed to support learning, play, and social interaction in a safe, structured environment. Interested in joining? Contact us today!
- Miami Children’s Museum – Sensory Saturdays
📍 Miami, FL
The Snoezelen Room at this museum provides a calming, multi-sensory space for children with autism and sensory processing disorders. Every second Saturday of the month, the museum offers Sensory-Friendly Saturdays, featuring lower lighting, reduced noise levels, and limited capacity for a more enjoyable experience.
- Young at Art Museum – Sensory Sundays
📍 Fort Lauderdale, FL
This interactive museum opens an hour early every second Sunday for children with autism and sensory sensitivities. Families can enjoy a peaceful environment, engaging art activities, and hands-on exhibits at their own pace.
- Zoo Miami – Certified Autism Center
📍 Miami, FL
Zoo Miami is the first zoo in Florida to receive the Certified Autism Center designation! The zoo offers specially trained staff, quiet areas, and sensory-friendly programs, plus upcoming sensory bags with noise-canceling headphones and fidget toys for guests.
- Island Dolphin Care – Therapy with Dolphins
📍 Key Largo, FL
Island Dolphin Care offers customizable therapy programs for children with special needs, allowing them to interact with dolphins in a safe and engaging environment. Families can participate in both water and land-based activities alongside trained therapists.
- Shake-A-Leg Miami – Adaptive Water Sports
📍 Miami, FL
Shake-A-Leg Miami is a nonprofit provides therapeutic boating, kayaking, and swimming experiences for children with physical and developmental challenges. Furthermore, it is a great way to explore Biscayne Bay while also engaging in sensory-friendly outdoor fun!
Sensory-Inclusive Events in Miami-Dade
First and foremost, keep an eye out for the sensory-inclusive access symbol (an open hand with a headset) when exploring local events. This symbol indicates that the event is designed to be more accommodating for individuals with sensory sensitivities. Therefore, you can enjoy a more comfortable experience while participating in various activities. These events are designed with modified sound and lighting and offer noise-reducing headsets to create a welcoming experience for all children.
Making Spring Break Enjoyable at Home
Not traveling? No problem! Here are some easy ways to create a fun and structured spring break at home:
- Keep a Routine – Maintain regular wake-up, meal, and bedtime schedules.
- Plan Themed Days – Try a craft day, science experiment day, or outdoor adventure day.
- Create a Sensory Space – Set up a quiet corner with weighted blankets, soft lighting, and sensory tools.
- Try a Spring Scavenger Hunt – Explore your backyard or a local park looking for flowers, leaves, and birds.
- Get Active Indoors – Try obstacle courses, dance parties, or yoga sessions to burn off energy.
Enjoy the Moment—Every Memory Matters!
No matter how you decide to spend your spring break, the most important aspect is to enjoy quality time together with your loved ones. Additionally, by incorporating structure, sensory-friendly activities, and enjoyable routines, you can transform this time into a stress-free and rewarding experience for both you and your child.
Moreover, these elements can significantly enhance the overall experience, ensuring that everyone remains engaged and happy throughout the break. Ultimately, the goal is to create lasting memories that you will cherish long after the spring break is over.
So, why not make the most of this special time together?
📌 Share this post with fellow Super Parents who might find these tips helpful!
Together, we make it better! ✨