The Sensory-Friendly Summer: Activities for Kids with Autism
Discover sensory-friendly summer ideas for kids with autism, from calming activities to inclusive camps and community programs.
Adolescence is often described as a time of change, but that word barely scratches the surface. From emotional roller coasters to shifting identities, the tween and teen years can leave even the most prepared parents feeling a little lost. Underneath all the drama and eye-rolls is something far more powerful: a brain undergoing a remarkable transformation.
Understanding what is happening inside the adolescent brain is not just helpful, it is essential. It gives parents the roadmap to respond with empathy, patience and the right kind of support, especially when it comes to youth mental health.
Between the ages of 10 and 25, the brain is remodeling itself in dramatic ways. One of the last areas to fully develop is the prefrontal cortex, which is the region responsible for reasoning, impulse control, decision-making and planning. In contrast, the amygdala, which governs emotions and reacts to threats, matures much earlier.
This mismatch explains a lot. Teens might feel things deeply, react quickly and struggle to weigh consequences. Not because they are defiant, but because their brains are still building the systems that regulate behavior. They are not “broken.” They are becoming.
This developmental window is also when many mental health conditions first emerge. Anxiety, depression, ADHD and mood disorders often surface during adolescence, but early signs can be subtle, especially in high-achieving or socially active kids.
Changes in sleep, appetite, energy or mood may be dismissed as “just being a teen,” but they are often cues worth noticing. For youth with preexisting conditions like ADHD or autism, puberty and social pressures can compound emotional struggles. Parents should trust their instincts. If something feels “off,” it is worth a conversation, and sometimes a consultation.
Adolescents crave independence, but they still need structure and support. The goal is to become a “secure base,” or a safe place to return to when the world feels overwhelming. That means staying connected, even when they push away.
Simple strategies help:
At Pediatric Consultations, we often meet families who are navigating this complex phase. Our goal is to partner with both parents and teens, helping them understand not just symptoms, but the science behind behavior.
Support may include:
Parenting through adolescence requires a shift, from managing behavior to mentoring growth. When you understand that your child’s brain is in a state of construction, it becomes easier to meet them where they are. Not as someone who “should know better,” but as someone learning how to think, feel and function in a rapidly changing world.
Your teen does not need perfection, they need presence. And when you are not sure what is going on or how to help, our team is here to walk with you.
Discover sensory-friendly summer ideas for kids with autism, from calming activities to inclusive camps and community programs.
Learn how to recognize the subtle signs of internalized anxiety in children, along with the importance of early support.