By: Emma Harding LMFT
As the school year wraps up, families often look forward to summer as a season of fun, freedom, and a slower pace. But for many kids and teens, the sudden change in structure can be harder than it looks. Without the consistency of school routines, even enjoyable summer days can sometimes leave children feeling out of sync, overwhelmed, or disconnected.
Children, just like adults, do best when there’s a balance of predictability and connection. Summer offers a great opportunity to create both.
Keep a Flexible Rhythm
Kids don’t need a strict schedule, but they do benefit from a consistent flow to the day. A simple routine like regular mealtimes, built-in outdoor or active play, limited screen time, and a predictable bedtime can provide a sense of safety and stability. This rhythm doesn’t have to be perfect. It’s about creating touchpoints throughout the day that kids can count on, especially when everything else feels more open-ended than during the school year.
Reconnect in Small, Meaningful Ways
With fewer time pressures, summer can be a great time to strengthen your relationship with your child. Even short moments like reading a book together, cooking a meal, or going for a walk help children feel seen, heard, and valued. These moments don’t need to be big or planned. What matters most is showing up consistently and with intention. These everyday connections are powerful for a child’s emotional health.
Rest is Productive Too
It’s easy to feel pressure to pack summer full of activities, but downtime plays an important role in a child’s development. Boredom, rest, and unstructured play all give kids space to recharge, self-regulate, and spark creativity. Let your child have some slow days. Quiet mornings, solo playtime, or lounging without a plan are all healthy and necessary. And when caregivers model rest, kids learn that it’s okay to slow down too.
Encourage Emotional Check-Ins
Summer can also be a good time to check in emotionally. With fewer distractions, children may become more aware of their feelings or have more space to talk about them. Try asking open-ended questions like, “What’s something that’s felt tough lately?” or “What’s been making you smile this week?” It helps to model this kind of emotional awareness yourself. Sharing when you’re feeling stressed, excited, or overwhelmed and how you’re coping teaches kids how to do the same.
Watch for Mental Health Red Flags
While changes in mood or energy are common with seasonal shifts, it’s important to notice when something seems off. If your child withdraws from activities they usually enjoy, has trouble sleeping, shows ongoing irritability, or seems persistently anxious or sad, it may be time to check in with a professional. You don’t have to have all the answers. Reaching out for support is a sign of strength and care for both your child and your family.
Final Thoughts
Summer is more than just a break from school. It’s a chance to reset. With a little intention around rhythm, connection, and rest, this season can support your child’s mental health in lasting ways.
For more tips, resources, and family support, visit tanagerplace.org.
