Northport Wellness Center

For many children, summertime means carefree days with no schedules, no homework and endless hours spent outside enjoying the warmth of the sun and the freedom of the season. For many parents, particularly of children with special needs, this freedom can be quite challenging, especially if their children are not attending a summer camp program, a vacation is not planned, and there is no “time-off” from work or services. But rest assured, summertime can be just as endearing for parents as it is for children regardless of their needs.

This summer, take some time out of your busy days to enjoy simple, outdoor activities with your child, helping to revive each other and your relationship with one another.

Have a picnic. Whether on a blanket in your own backyard or on a park bench, having a picnic is a super way to enjoy the outdoors. And for parents of children with food allergies, picnicking offers the opportunity to dine in a different environment but with the assurance that all the food is safe to enjoy, as it is carefully prepared from home.

Take a walk. Morning, day or night – there’s no time like summertime to take a stroll. And while walking through your own neighborhood is just fine, as long as it is not too overwhelming for your children, exploring new territories as a family can add even more excitement to the summer. There are many parks on Long Island that feature nature trails just waiting to be explored. Your family will get exercise, have fun and perhaps learn a little bit about Mother Nature all at once.

Blow Bubbles. Almost all children love bubbles. Hearing your children’s laughter as they chase the bubbles, popping them along the way, is sure to radiate a smile on your own face. While this activity is geared more for your children, it is certainly one that the whole family can enjoy.

Explore local attractions. Spend the day in the heart of Northport, strolling through town and watching the boats drift along the water. The Holtsville Ecology Center is free and features an awesome zoo with bears and bald eagles and more. There are many farms throughout Long Island with small petting zoos. There’s something quite tranquil about these places … your whole family is sure to benefit from the experience.

Do some gardening. From choosing the flowers to digging a hole or painting a pot to plant them in, each member of your family can contribute to the home garden. Make it a fun sensory activity for your children by daring them to get their hands nice and dirty.

Engage in water fun activities. If you own a pool – super - hop in! If you don’t, there are plenty of other fun ways to cool off from the summer heat. Baby pools are a great way for your most timid child to cool off safely and with less fear. Sprinklers are also a refreshing alternative to beat the summer heat in the comfort of your own home. And of course, there’s always the beach. Sand and water are such simple elements, yet so entertaining. Teach your children to enjoy and appreciate these things as much as they would a video game or battery operated toy.

Star gaze. What is so wonderful about summer is that the days really do seem endless. For at least one evening, don’t look at the clock. Take advantage of the summer light and sit outside with your family and read a book. Camp out in the back yard, even if you know no one is going to make it through the night. And don’t forget to make a wish upon a star. Does it get more magical than that?

All too often, we get caught in the rush of life, sometimes thinking that the only way to truly enjoy ourselves is to go on a vacation. However, many times, all that is needed are a few short “breaks” from the ordinary day and environment to feel refreshed as an individual and to bond as a family. This summer, enjoy with your loved life’s simple pleasures … fresh air, the warmth of the sun and the spirit of family togetherness. Happy Summer!

Enjoying The Magic Of Summer With Your Family