Fwd: ☀️ 13 Summer Must-Haves for Special Needs Kids

[Anne Ward]

---------- Forwarded message ---------
From: WonderBaby.org <he...@wonderbaby.org>
Date: Tue, Jul 8, 2025 at 6:00 PM
Subject: ☀️ 13 Summer Must-Haves for Special Needs Kids
To

Sunshine-tested, parent-approved!

Outdoor summer fun sounds great until you start packing. For families of children with disabilities, summer outings often require planning worthy of a military operation. Whether you're heading to the beach, a park, or just the playground across the street, you've got to prep for meltdowns, medical needs, and messy surprises. That’s why we’ve rounded up 13 must-have summer essentials for special needs kids recommended by real parents who’ve been there, done that, and found the hacks that work. Think sunscreen that won’t spill, water shoes for sensitive feet, and even portable potty seats that make all the difference. Sunscreen sticks: Easy to stash and less messy. Don’t forget extra for backups! Sunglasses: Especially important for kids with photophobia. (Pro tip: bring extras in case someone’s gets lost or broken!) Misting fan or stroller fan: Self-directed sensory cooling? Yes, please. All-terrain stroller: If you qualify, talk to your PT about insurance coverage for a Convaid Cruiser or something similar. Universal stroller canopy: Wide shade, easy fit. Great for sun-sensitive kids. Waterproof picnic blanket: Throw it down anywhere, even if it rained that morning. Giant carry-all bag + stroller clips: Be hands-free and ready for everything. Portable potty seat: Game changer if you're potty training on the go. (Special Tomato Portable Seat gets an A+) Noise-canceling headphones: One mom said it best, “The only way we survive chaotic festivals.” Water shoes: Help kids with tactile aversions enjoy the beach without meltdowns. Boogie board for mobility: Set your kid down on it and drag over sand instead of lifting a heavy stroller. Genius! Bungee chair: Folds up, adds sensory input, and helps kids stay calm longer. 24-Hour Cold Bottle (like Yeti): Keeps thickened liquids cold and safe to drink all day. 5 Summer Sanity-Saver Tips from Parents Like You Always pack extra of everything. Sunglasses, wipes, snacks, etc. You’ll thank yourself later! Prep a sensory kit with calming items like chewy tubes, fidgets, or weighted lap pads. Practice transitions ahead of time with social stories or visual schedules. Keep a “summer go-bag” in the car (or by the front door) with backups: a change of clothes, extra meds, sunhat, fan. Don't forget an extra change of clothes for yourself! Don’t be afraid to leave early. Not every day will go as planned, and that’s okay. You’re doing an incredible job. Every extra item you pack and every detail you plan adds up to love in action. Our kids deserve summer memories just like everyone else, and with the right tools and support, you can make that happen! We hope this guide helps make your summer a little easier and a lot more fun. 💛 ☀️ Happy outings! Amber Bobnar Founder, WonderBaby.org This email may contain affiliate links; please see our terms of use for details. Copyright © 2025 www.wonderbaby.org, All rights reserved. You are receiving this email because you subscribed to our newsletter at wonderbaby.org. Our mailing address is: www.wonderbaby.org 42 Frank St Watertown, MA 02472 Add us to your address book