Summer Activities That Support ABA Goals for Kids with Autism

Tips for Turning Summer Fun into Opportunities for Learning and Skill-Building for Autistic Kids

At ABLE (Applied Behavioral Learning Experiences), we know that summer offers a great opportunity to continue supporting children with autism through engaging, everyday activities. While school may be out, learning never stops, especially when ABA therapy strategies are thoughtfully woven into summer fun.

If you live in Central Florida, these ideas are perfect for families looking to build skills and strengthen routines at home and out in the community specially tailored for the areas we serve in Lakeland, Tampa, Brandon and Clearwater.

 1. Nature Walks & Scavenger Hunts ☀️

Go for a walk in a local park or nature trail. Bring along a visual checklist or scavenger hunt with items like “red flower,” “bird,” or “round rock.” This encourages:

• Receptive language (e.g., “Find something red”)
• Following directions
• Turn-taking if done with siblings or peers

Local tip: Try Holloway Park in Lakeland or Lettuce Lake Park in Tampa for shaded trails and plenty of wildlife.

 2. Water Play with Purpose

Backyard splash pads, sprinklers, or water tables offer more than just cooling off. Use them to teach:

• Requesting and labeling items (“I want bucket,” “cold water”)
• Waiting and turn-taking
• Motor planning and fine motor skills with pouring or scooping

Water play can also provide calming sensory input, especially for children who seek tactile feedback.

 3. Beach or Pool Days with Structured Routines ️

Heading to the beach or pool? Use visuals or a simple social story before you go to help your child prepare. While there, practice:

• Transitions (e.g., “First swim, then snack”)
• Safety skills (like staying with an adult)
• Social greetings with other children

Pack familiar snacks and sensory tools to keep your child regulated.

4. Arts and Crafts for Communication and Focus  

Creative time can support:

• Following multi-step instructions
• Choice-making (“Do you want blue or green?”)
• Attention and fine motor skills

Use preferred characters, textures, or themes to keep engagement high. Display the artwork at home to boost self-esteem.

5. Grocery Store Trips as Teaching Moments  

A routine grocery store visit can be a great ABA practice session. Use visuals, checklists, or simple tasks like:

• Finding an item
• Placing it in the cart
• Waiting in line

These real-world experiences build community skills, compliance, and communication which are essential ABA goals.

 6. Sensory-Friendly Community Events

Summer is full of family-friendly opportunities. Look for sensory-friendly events at museums, movie theaters, or libraries. These outings promote:

• Tolerance of new environments
• Social interaction
• Generalization of mastered skills outside the home

ABLE regularly participates in community events across Central Florida, so be sure to follow us on social media to see where we’ll be next!

• July 12, MOSI Sensory Hours.
• July 17, Lowes Brandon Special Needs Crafts.

Why Summer ABA Therapy Still Matters?

At ABLE, we continue therapy sessions throughout the summer in all our locations: Lakeland, Tampa, Brandon, and Clearwater. Many of our families find that summer provides a chance to make significant progress in communication, behavior, and independence when kids aren’t juggling school demands.

If you’re looking for tips to practice ABA strategies at home, our team is here to support you every step of the way, just drop a comment on this post and we will get back to you to help you and your child thrive.

Looking for ABA Therapy in Central Florida?

ABLE provides high-quality, compassionate ABA therapy for children with autism. Our trained behavior analysts work closely with families to create individualized treatment plans tailored to each child’s needs and goals.

✅ Now accepting new clients in Lakeland, Brandon, Tampa, and Clearwater. We take most insurances including Blue Cross Blue Shield, Aetna, Cigna, ChampVA, Tricare, UBH, CMS, Simply, United and many more. Contact us today:

Call us at (863) 619-2809
Email us at intake@applied-behavioral.com

Let’s make this summer one of growth, joy, and meaningful learning.