While many families look forward to summer, hot weather can present unique challenges for children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).
Higher temperatures, disrupted routines, changes to sleep, unfamiliar clothing, increased sensory discomfort and spending more time indoors can all contribute to feelings of overwhelm or dysregulation.
Here, Lisa Spann, Managing Director at Fledglings, shares her expert advice on supporting children with SEND during hot weather.
8 Tips For Supporting Children With SEND During Hot Weather
Lisa Spann, Managing Director at Fledglings, said: “Hot weather can affect every child differently, but for many children with SEND, the combination of sensory changes, disrupted routines and physical discomfort can make it particularly challenging. The good news is that with a little planning and a flexible approach, families can make the experience much more manageable while helping children feel safe, calm and supported.”
1. Keep familiar routines wherever possible
“Hot weather often means later bedtimes, cancelled activities or staying indoors more than usual. While some flexibility is inevitable, maintaining familiar routines around meals, bedtime and daily activities provides reassurance and helps children feel more settled. Even if plans change, keeping the structure of the day as consistent as possible can reduce anxiety.”
2. Help children stay cool in ways that suit their sensory needs
“Not every child will tolerate fans, cold flannels or certain clothing fabrics. Some may dislike the feeling of sunscreen or become distressed by sweating. Offering different options, such as cooling towels, lightweight clothing made from comfortable fabrics, shaded outdoor spaces or cool sensory toys, allows families to find what works best for their child rather than relying on one solution.”
3. Encourage regular hydration
“Some children may not recognise when they’re thirsty or may avoid drinking because of sensory preferences. Offering drinks little and often, using favourite cups or bottles, or making hydration more engaging with ice lollies, fruit or flavoured water can help increase fluid intake throughout the day.”
4. Prepare children for changes to their routine
“Schools may adjust timetables, outdoor activities may be cancelled, and family plans can change at short notice during hot weather. Explaining these changes in advance using visual schedules, social stories, or simple conversations can help children understand what to expect and reduce uncertainty.”
5. Create a cool, calming space at home
“Having a quiet area where children can escape the heat and sensory overload can make a significant difference. Closing curtains during the hottest part of the day, reducing background noise and including familiar comfort items can create a space where children feel safe and able to regulate.”
6. Watch for signs of overheating or distress
“Children with SEND may communicate discomfort differently, and some may not be able to express that they’re becoming too hot. Parents should look out for changes in behaviour, increased irritability, unusual tiredness, flushing or withdrawal, as these can all be signs that a child needs to cool down or rest.”
7. Be flexible with clothing and expectations
“Some children may struggle with lighter summer clothing or resist wearing hats because of sensory sensitivities. Where possible, offering choices rather than insisting on one option can help. The same applies to activities. It may be better to swap energetic play for quieter indoor activities until temperatures are cooler.”
8. Prioritise rest and recovery
“Heat can be exhausting, particularly for children who are already working hard to manage sensory input throughout the day. Allowing extra downtime, quieter activities and opportunities to rest can help prevent children from becoming overwhelmed and make it easier for them to cope with the demands of hot weather.”
“Hot weather can be difficult for many families, but small adjustments can have a big impact. By staying flexible, anticipating sensory needs and maintaining reassuring routines where possible, parents can help children with SEND stay comfortable, regulated and confident throughout periods of extreme heat.”
Discover more advice and practical resources for supporting children with SEND throughout the year at https://www.fledglings.org.uk/.
