Strategies for a Relaxing Summer Break

One difficulty that a lot of parents have when it comes to their kids is when school ends and summer break begins. Life gets busy, routines change, and some of the structure their kids previously have kind of falls off. 

We get it! It happens. 

But, for kids who struggle with emotional, developmental, and mental health issues, this change can be rough, and can start to throw them (and your whole household) for a loop.

Kids thrive with structure. It makes them feel more safe and comfortable, and this is even more true for kids who have anxiety, ADHD, autism, etc. This could be why your kid actually does better throughout the school year and is having a harder time this summer.

So, what are some tips to regain a sense of structure that is reminiscent of school, and have a successful summer break?

1. Reward the “good” behaviors. 

   1. Examples of good rewards are special outings, a point system where they earn stickers/tokens and can add them up and trade it in for something, or verbal praise

   2. Rewards are super important for kids who are struggling emotionally or behaviorally

   3. It shows them that, when they exhibit pleasant behavior, everyone wins

   4. Ignoring the small, unwanted or unpleasant behaviors is a good way of giving the message that acting out will not give them what they want

2. Maintain a routine

   1. Keeping their usual bedtimes and meal times (or following as closely as you can) is important

   2. Kids who struggle with anxiety can benefit from a schedule being posted where they can see it

   3. Keep the “staples” of the everyday routine (getting ready, meal times, chore times), and then plan other activities or outings around it (play dates, pool time, playground)

3. Take care of yourself

   1. It’s really important for parents to check in with themselves and their needs as well, since summer break can be so exhausting

   2. If you need breaks, take breaks! Hire a sitter or leave kids with family members

   3. It’s normal if your kids are acting out more, but also very draining for you, so give yourself some grace

4. Play outdoors

   1. Playing outside is important for kids because they get physical exercise and will likely behave better when they are less bored

   2. It’s important that kids always have supervision outside

   3. If camp is an option, this could be good for kids who need more structure and outdoor playtime

   4. Kids need breaks from screens, as screens can be comforting in the moment but can create more long term anxiety as a child gets more reliant on it

As always, it’s super important to note that parents are human too and do not need to be perfect. Having a picture-perfect family is an extremely unattainable and unrealistic goal. Each family has its struggles and stressors. If your child is struggling a little extra with the changes that summer break brings, you are not alone! Try different things and see what works. 

And, as always, if you feel as though you could benefit from extra support, we have child therapists who can do that! Reach out to Amel Counseling & Consulting today for a free, 15-minute phone consultation and start your journey!