OCHN Provides Tips for Summer Schedules
Attn: Community Editors FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Suzanne Weinert / Kaylee Salveta
248-758-1991 248-464-6349
weinerts@oaklandchn.org salvetak@oaklandchn.org
OAKLAND COUNTY, MI (July 13, 2023) – With summer well on its way, families may have needed
to adjust their schedules for summer vacation. Last minute preparation can sometimes cause stress
and frustration. This can be especially difficult for parents whose children have intellectual /
developmental disabilities.
Oakland Community Health Network (OCHN) offers these tips to help parents transition their
children to an enjoyable summer schedule:
• Plan ahead – Providing a schedule early on and sticking to it as much as possible may help
the transition to summer become less complicated. Planning can also be helpful in letting the
child know what will happen next, putting him / her at ease regarding upcoming events like
family outings or vacations.
• Make small adjustments – Make a summer bucket list of fun things that the child loves and
wants to do. For example, if the child likes animals, arrange a trip to the zoo. Taking those
small steps can make the child feel less anxious when their routine is altered.
• Maintain a routine – The absence of school structure can possibly make children feel
uncomfortable. To help counter these emotions, try to maintain routines not associated with
summer. For instance, continue schedules around bedtime, meals, and other outdoor
activities.
• Engage in social activities – Enroll your child into a summer camp or sport for children with
special needs to keep connections open or develop new ones. It may also be helpful to
incorporate educational activities for the transition back to school an easier process in the fall.
• Always have a Plan B – When planned outings are changed unexpectedly due to weather or
other reasons, children may have a difficult time understanding and become upset. Create an
alternate option for these cases, such as watching a movie or doing an art project at home.
Inspire Hope • Empower People • Strengthen Communities
5505 Corporate Dr. | Troy, MI 48098 | Phone 248.858.1210 | Fax 248.452.9793
Inspire Hope • Empower People • Strengthen Communities
5505 Corporate Dr. | Troy, MI 48098 | Phone 248.858.1210 | Fax 248.452.9793
About OCHN
OCHN is contracted by the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services to lead a provider
service network that assists approximately 27,000 Oakland County citizens at more than 300 service
sites across the county. People who receive public behavioral health services through OCHN's
provider network include those who have an intellectual or developmental disability, mental health
concerns, or substance use disorder. Most of these individuals have Medicaid insurance coverage.
OCHN's goal is to ensure these individuals are aware of and have access to services and supports
that will improve their health and quality of life, as well as ensure their engagement in full community
participation. Its mission to “inspire hope, empower people, and strengthen communities” reflects an
unyielding belief in a "Valuable System for Valued People." Programs and supports provided by
OCHN's service network are available at www.oaklandchn.org.
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