Slide into summer with these 5 tips for family well-being
It’s summer! A time for relaxation, exploration, and a well-deserved break from the school routine. But just like children’s academic skills can regress during this period (the dreaded "summer slide"), social-emotional skills and mental health can also take a dip.
This, in part, is because school provides a structured environment that fosters social interaction, emotional regulation, and a sense of accomplishment. Without that structure, children can struggle to maintain healthy habits, stay connected to their support networks, and develop essential skills.
So how can we prevent this summer slide in social-emotional skills and overall well-being? Here are five key tips for parents and caregivers to keep kids thriving throughout the break:
Tip 1: Replace your school-year schedule with a more flexible routine.
Why? Structure provides a sense of security and helps children regulate their emotions. It also helps ensure that they maintain healthy sleep habits and get the proper nutrition needed for both physical and mental development.
Try This:
Focus on consistency: Aim for regular wake-up and bedtime times, even if they shift slightly later than during the school year.
Plan for healthy meals and snacks: Keep a stocked pantry and fridge so you can prepare nutritious meals together.
Schedule dedicated activity time: Plan for a mix of physical activities, creative exploration, and quiet time for reading or relaxation.
Be flexible: Leave room for spontaneous adventures and adjust the schedule if needed.
“We all need time to recharge and de-stress. Research shows that physical and psychological rest are essential for overall wellbeing—and can even help us live longer.”
Tip 2: Make time to nurture relationships with friends, family, and your community.
Why? Strong social connections are crucial for emotional well-being—for kids and for adults. During the school year, children spend a significant amount of time interacting with peers and teachers. Summer break can disrupt these connections and increase feelings of isolation and loneliness.
Try This:
Plan family outings and game nights: Engage in activities that promote bonding and communication.
Organize playdates with friends: Encourage visits or group activities with classmates.
Volunteer or participate in community events: Provide opportunities for children to connect with others and make a positive impact.
Tip 3: Take on a challenge or develop a new skill.
Why? Learning a new skill or taking on a challenge boosts confidence and teaches valuable life lessons. It also helps children discover their strengths and interests.
Try This:
Sign them up for a summer camp: Camps offer a variety of activities that can foster creativity, teamwork, and problem-solving skills.
Encourage hobbies and interests: Support their passion for music, art, sports, or anything that sparks their curiosity.
Set achievable goals together: Whether it's mastering a new recipe, building a model airplane, or learning a magic trick, celebrate their progress and accomplishments.
Tip 4: Learn coping strategies while things are less stressful.
Why? Life throws curveballs. Equipping children with coping skills helps them manage difficult emotions and navigate challenges throughout the year.
Try This:
Practice mindfulness and relaxation techniques: Deep breathing exercises, meditation, or yoga can help them calm their minds and regulate emotions.
Encourage journaling: Give them a space to express their feelings and thoughts in a safe and private way.
Role-play potential scenarios: Help them practice healthy communication and conflict resolution skills for real-world situations.
Tip 5: Take a real break.
Why? We all need time to recharge and de-stress. Research shows that physical and psychological rest are essential for overall well-being—and can even help us live longer.
Try This:
Rest together: You don’t need to be alone to take a break! Try finding a family activity that helps everyone feel relaxed and connected to each other.
Schedule self-care: Plan time for relaxation, hobbies, or spending time with loved ones.
Don't feel pressured to fill every minute with activities: Embrace boredom; it can spark creativity and independence.
Remember, summer break is not just an academic break. It's an opportunity for children to nurture their social-emotional well-being and build valuable life skills. By incorporating these tips into your summer routine, you can help them prevent the "summer slide" in mental health and ensure they return to school feeling confident and ready to learn.
Posted by Alison Cashin, Director of Communications
