When Maya’s son splashed into the pool, sporting his adaptive float and waterproof briefs, she wasn’t just a spectator; she was witnessing him truly belong.
Summer should be all about joy and fun, not filled with stress or feelings of isolation. Yet, for many parents of children with disabilities like Maya, outings to the park, pool, or family gatherings can come with a hefty dose of anxiety. From juggling medical supplies to navigating public spaces that aren’t always welcoming, it’s all too easy to start feeling overwhelmed.
July is Disability Pride Month, the perfect opportunity to honor the identities, resilience, and full humanity of individuals with disabilities, and this includes children with medical needs, mobility challenges, or developmental differences. It’s also a gentle reminder for parents: your child deserves to be recognized, celebrated, and supported throughout every season of their life.
Today, we’re here to provide encouragement, share inclusive activity ideas, and offer confidence-boosting tips to help your child feel comfortable and proud all summer long.
What Disability Pride Month Means for Families
Disability Pride Month began in July to honor the passing of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) in 1990. This important law protects the rights of individuals with disabilities. But Disability Pride is so much more than just a law; it’s about celebrating how your child shows up in the world, exactly as they are.
This celebration embraces all children, whether they have visible or invisible disabilities, along with the families who love and advocate for them every single day.
It’s about replacing shame with confidence. Isolation with inclusion. And silence with celebration.
– UroStat Healthcare
Your child’s medical needs, be it a catheter, incontinence briefs, a feeding tube, or a wheelchair, are not something to be ashamed of. They are integral to their one-of-a-kind story. This summer, let your child feel safe, proud, and completely free to be themselves.
How to Support Your Child’s Confidence This Summer
Every child deserves to feel included. But when your little one relies on medical equipment, faces communication challenges, or needs a bit of extra support in public, it’s natural to worry about how others might react or how your child might feel.
Here are some great ways to boost your child’s confidence this summer:
- Use positive language. Instead of dwelling on “limitations,” focus on your child’s strengths and interests. For instance, say “You’re an amazing swimmer” rather than “We just take it slower.”
- Celebrate wins, no matter the size. Whether your child manages to stay dry in swim briefs for an hour or has a blast for five minutes in the splash pad, every little victory deserves a celebration (and you can never go wrong with an ice cream stop!).
- Model pride and acceptance. Your attitude towards your child’s equipment, behaviors, or differences plays a big role in how they view themselves.
- Normalize their medical gear. There’s no need to hide catheters, CGMs, or adaptive devices unless your child prefers some privacy. These things are just part of who they are.
- Practice inclusion with siblings or friends. Create play opportunities where your child can shine and feel included, even if they can’t join in exactly the same way as everyone else.
Always remember: Confidence isn’t about being perfect; it’s about feeling safe and supported in your own skin.
Preparing for a pool or beach day? Grab our free checklist on what to pack for a pool day with a special needs child: What to Pack for Pool Days with a Special Needs Child Checklist
Inclusive Summer Activities for Kids with Disabilities
Are you on the hunt for fun and inclusive summer activities? Here are some great ideas to keep your child engaged, active, and feeling confident!
Pool & Water Play
- Use adaptive swimwear or waterproof briefs for children managing incontinence
- Visit splash pads with family restrooms and non-slip surfaces
- Use a beach wheelchair or adaptive float for children with mobility challenges
- Set up a backyard kiddie pool with shaded areas and sensory-friendly toys
Arts & Creativity
- Host a sidewalk chalk art day with neighbors or friends
- Try water-based painting outside with large brushes and smocks
- Let your child decorate their own swim bag, water bottle, or beach hat
Nature & Movement
- Look for parks with accessible trails and/or inclusive playgrounds
- Create a nature scavenger hunt that doesn’t require much walking
- Visit local gardens, zoos, or outdoor exhibits with sensory-friendly hours
Community & Celebration
- Attend summer fairs or events that offer quiet zones and/or sensory tents
- Look for disability inclusion events in your area during July
- Organize a “Disability Pride Picnic” with other families, when possible. Even if it’s just you and your child, take time to celebrate their identity!
UroStat Tip: Not every outing has to be long or public. Even small, joyful moments at home count as summer magic.
How to Help Your Child Stay Comfortable & Confident Outdoors
Many parents share that one of their biggest challenges during the summer is handling their child’s medical needs while out and about. So, here are some ways to make your child feel more confident and comfortable when you’re on the go:
Smart Packing Tips
- Use a wet/dry bag to discreetly store used incontinence products or clothing
- Pack barrier creams, wipes, and extra clothing for those longer outings
- Bring swim-friendly diapers or protective briefs. Not all options work equally well in the water!
- Include noise-canceling headphones, a comfort item, or a weighted lap pad for sensory regulation
Plan for Flexibility
- Don’t feel pressured to stay long or “do it all”. Short and sweet still counts
- Scope out the restroom or private changing space when you arrive
- Choose places that allow you to come and go as needed, without stress
Communicate with Confidence
- Advocate ahead of time: talk to camp leaders, pool staff, or caregivers about your child’s needs
- Use simple, direct phrases to educate others if needed: “My child uses a medical device that helps them stay healthy, it’s part of our routine.”
Most people are more understanding than you expect, and when you lead with confidence, they usually follow!
Read More: What to Pack for a Pool Days with a Special Needs Child
Every Child Belongs in the Sun
Disability Pride Month is about so much more than just raising awareness; it’s about boosting confidence! It’s all about ensuring that every child, regardless of their diagnosis or the equipment they use, feels like they truly belong, whether it’s at the pool, the park, a party, or anywhere else life takes them.
As a parent, you’re doing amazing work advocating for, preparing, protecting, and celebrating your child. UroStat is honored to be your partner on this journey.
Need a hand picking out the right summer-friendly incontinence products or supplies? Our team is here to:
- Suggest what works best for hot weather, water activities, or outdoor play
- Send you free samples so you can try things out before deciding
- Walk you through insurance coverage and monthly reorders
Don’t hesitate to reach out to a UroStat Care Specialist today through our Contact Form. Let us help you support your child’s comfort and confidence all summer long!