As the seasons change, so do the routines, supports, and services that many DC families rely on every day. That’s why spring is such an important time to begin planning for the transition into summer. At AJE, we know that for children and youth with disabilities and special health care needs (CYSHCN), the end of the school year can bring major changes.
From shifts in schedules and therapies to changes in childcare, camps, transportation, and access to therapeutic and social services, this annual transition can be challenging for families navigating not only changes in the systems of care but also in their growing child’s needs, which change as they age. Planning for the spring-to-summer transition is about preparing early, building stability, and making sure your family and household feel supported before summer begins.
To support families during this important transition period, AJE is excited to share our 2026 Ready, Set, Glow: Spring Transition Guide, available in both English and Spanish. The guide provides practical tools to help families navigate the move from spring into summer, including simple routine strategies, free and accessible DC-based activities, wellness supports, planning tools, and age-specific resources for children and youth from early childhood through young adulthood.
As part of our ongoing commitment to community care and peer learning, AJE will also be distributing First Day Mutual Aid Packages, which include printed copies of the 2026 Ready, Set, Glow: Spring Transition Guide and wellness products at local health care and learning environments throughout the season. These distributions are designed to help families feel prepared, connected, and supported with practical resources that promote health, wellness, and smoother transitions into summer routines.
The 2026 Ready, Set, Glow: Spring Transition Guide was created with families in mind and recognizes that transitions can be stressful for both caregivers and children. From visual schedules and emotional wellness check-ins to information about summer programming and emergency supports, the guide centers on preparation, accessibility, and community-based care every step of the way.
We invite families, caregivers, providers, and community members to join the AJE Health Collaborative Pop-Up sessions on Monday, June 1, 2026, from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM, where we will walk through the Spring Transition Guide together, share resources, and build community through peer support and wellness education.
Download the 2026 Ready, Set, Glow: Spring Transition Guide here:
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