What is a “Recharge Reset”?
A Recharge Reset isn’t about doing absolutely nothing; it’s about intentional reset space. It’s a dedicated block of time – whether it’s two days a week, one full week, or a few hours every afternoon – where expectations decrease. Neurodivergent minds are working overtime all the time, and this process is a nice way to slow down for a short time. While on vacation, build in reset space each day and notice the shift from overdrive to cruise.
Here are a few ideas to get you started.
1. Ditch the Itinerary, Keep the Anchors
Create a “low-demand” rhythm. Keep the basic anchors the same – like wake-up times and meals – but leave the middle of the day wide open. Let the schedule be: We eat lunch, and then we see where the afternoon takes us.
2. Create a “Yes Space”
Designate a zone in your home where your child can engage in activities of interest without interruption. If they want to line up their Legos for three hours or read the same graphic novel four times in a row, let them. For neurodivergent minds, deep diving into a special interest can be a good way to self-regulate. Electronics are NOT included in this “yes space.”
3. Normalize “Parallel Playing” and Quiet Co-Existence
A Recharge Reset applies to parents and caregivers, too! Practice parallel playing – your child listens to an audiobook with noise-canceling headphones while you read a book nearby. You are together, co-regulating, without the pressure of forced interaction.
4. Reframe “Boredom” as Brain Rest
When your child says, “I’m bored,” our instinct is to fix it. Try reframing it. Boredom is often the doorway to creativity or, better yet, much-needed decompression. Give them the time and space to just be in that quiet moment.
This summer, give yourself permission to opt out of the hyper-scheduled culture. Your kids don’t need a postcard-perfect, action-packed summer to have a good childhood. We know that for working parents, this might be a challenge when you are not on vacation. Share this with your caregiver to support your children all summer long. Give your family the ultimate gift: the space to breathe, reset, and genuinely connect.