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Written by Danielle Medeiros, Project Coordinator from New Story Management 

Are you looking for budget-friendly outdoor entertainment for the kids this summer? Are you looking to continue learning through the summer months while the children are out of school? With these cost-effective ideas and using naturalistic teaching, it is easy to promote a positive learning experience that can be tailored to any individual child’s needs or environments.  

Naturalistic teaching (also known as incidental teaching) involves creating learning opportunities that occur within a person’s natural environment. There is an emphasis on teaching skills in real-life settings and situations which promotes generalization and functional use of skills. Various skills that can be used across different environments include:  

• Social skills – emotional regulation, cooperation   
• Language skills – receptive and expressive communication 
• Motor skills – fine and gross motor  
• Safety skills – safety commands (stop, wait), public safety  
• Cognitive skills – math, literacy, science, social studies 

Here are some great ideas: 

1. Local Parks: Spend a day exploring nearby parks with accessible playground equipment. It is a fantastic way to enjoy the outdoors and exert energy. 

   Example: Give your child 1-3 simple step instructions to complete in a sequence. “Climb up the stairs, walk on the bridge, go down the slide.” 

2. Splash Pads: Many communities have free or low-cost splash pads or water playgrounds where children can cool off and have fun in the water.

   Example: You can immitate splashing or pouring actions. 

3. Library Visits: Libraries often offer free story time sessions, crafts, and other activities for children/teens. It is a quiet and inclusive environment where children can explore books and participate in group activities. 

   Example: Practice cutting during a craft or identifying pictures in a book.  

4. Community Events: Keep an eye out for community events such as fairs, festivals, or concerts in the park. These events often have free admission and provide opportunities for socializing and sensory-friendly experiences. 

   Example: Work on safety commands, staying with parents and waiting when asked.  

5. Local Zoos, Aquariums, or Museum: Check out your local library to see what passes they may offer discounted or free admission. 

   Example: Describe the features of an elephant, ears, tail, trunk, etc.  

6. Nature Walks: Take leisurely walks in nature reserves, botanical gardens, or scenic trails. Children can explore different textures, sights, and sounds while enjoying the calming effects of nature.  

   Example: Collect items in nature and count them or classify them.  

7. Kids Workshops: Check out your local Home Depot for the free kids’ workshop for an in person or take-home project.  

   Example: Use fine motor skills to build items and follow directions.  

8. Local Farms or Farmers' Markets: Visit nearby farms or farmers' markets to see animals, pick fresh produce, or participate in seasonal activities like berry picking.  

   Example: Categorize local food by colors or food group or practice buying an item independently.  

9. Indoor Play Spaces: Look for indoor play spaces or sensory-friendly gyms in your area that offer open play sessions. These spaces often have specialized equipment and activities suitable for children with special needs.  

   Example: Work on social greetings or cooperative play with peers.  

By exploring these budget-friendly outings, you can create memorable and meaningful summer experiences for children with special needs without breaking the bank. While the summer will eventually end, the opportunities for teaching and learning are endless.