By: Liz Berland, LPC, SEP

It’s that time of year again! We’re all coming up to the end of the school year. This season can feel stressful for many children and teens due to exams, projects, graduations, proms, and the transition into summer. Here are a few signs to look for in your children: sleep disruption, a change in emotions and withdrawal. You can help support your children by having open communication, setting routines and practicing mindfulness, the habit of staying focused on the present without any judgement.

Slowing down and staying present together can help reduce stress and create more connection for the whole family. Ways to implement this, can involve having dinner together as a family, taking walks together and checking in how the day has gone. Give time for each family member to say a few words about their day – negative or positive. 

Many children (and parents!) look forward to the freedom and relaxation that summer brings. While the break offers a much-needed pause from homework, schedules, and academic pressure, the abrupt shift in routine can sometimes lead to emotional challenges and behavioral difficulties, especially for children who thrive on structure. One day a child is following a routine laid out for them and the next they have the whole day open with no activities planned. This can be a challenging transition for the whole family. The school year is filled with the expectations that students strive towards. 

Transitioning into summer often works best when families create a more flexible rhythm together. Setting up a new, less rigid routine to minimize chaos, and managing emotional adjustments from school to summer. This can help children feel more emotionally grounded and understand what to expect day to day. It’s important to have a schedule but to also allow for some spontaneity. Summer also creates more space for freedom, creativity, and spontaneous activities.

Simple ways to support your child during the transition into summer:

• planning a “summer bucket list” together
• setting up a designated snack station with healthy options
• maintaining some consistency around meals and sleep
• creating opportunities for family connection
• allowing room for rest and flexibility

Summer is not a time to be as rigid as the school year. However, many children still benefit from predictability during the day, even if summer routines look different. Consistent mealtimes, bedtimes, visual schedules for younger children, emotional check-ins, and age-appropriate chores can help children feel more emotionally regulated and secure. I’ve noticed that many children benefit from having enough structure to feel grounded while still leaving room for rest, play, and spontaneity.

While many children go to camps during the summer, some children prefer not to engage in this activity or parents may not have access financially. Local park districts, religious organizations and community centers often offer affordable activities and classes.

For adolescents, summer can also be a great opportunity for part-time jobs, volunteering, or other activities that build confidence and independence. These experiences can help teens build responsibility, confidence, routine, and social connection. Plus it helps with making friends and new connections, These are skills used for a lifetime.

Summer in the city is a perfect time to enjoy all that the city offers. Great food and music festivals, neighborhood street and art fairs. Summer can be a time to connect as a family and build memories that will last a lifetime. I still carry fond memories of the summers spent taking part in these special offerings. The best memory is watching July 4th fireworks, listening to the Chicago Symphony play the 1812 overture, and having a family picnic. Enjoy the slower pace and adventures of the summer!

Transitions can be difficult for many children and adolescents. This is a priority I work on in therapy with them. Remember there are resources out there to use if needed. One helpful support can be creating opportunities for connection through neighborhood friends, family activities, or community groups. Not only does it benefit the child but the parents as well. Connect with the local Park District, they offer many options including ones for Parents. 
Reach out to Embody + Mind Collective if you need additional support. If this transition into summer feels harder than expected for your child or family, additional support can help create more understanding, regulation, and connection during seasons of change.