How to Support Your Child’s Mental Health During Summer Break

By: Re'Shae Green

As the school year winds down, many families look forward to the freedom and flexibility of summer break. But while summer brings sunshine, playtime, and fewer routines, it can also present unique challenges for children’s mental health.

Whether it’s boredom, loneliness, lack of structure, or screen-time overload—kids need just as much emotional care during the summer as they do during the school year.

Let’s explore how you can support your child’s mental and emotional well-being all summer long.

🧠 Why Summer Break Affects Mental Health

While it might seem like all fun and games, summer break can disrupt a child’s sense of security and routine, which can lead to increased anxiety, behavioral issues, and even feelings of isolation. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), children thrive on structure, and removing it too suddenly can increase stress levels—especially for kids with ADHD, anxiety, or autism spectrum disorders.

Additionally, research from the National Summer Learning Association shows that children can experience emotional and academic regression when they’re disengaged from stimulating environments for extended periods.

✅ Tips for Supporting Your Child’s Mental Health This Summer

1. Create a Flexible Routine

While you don’t need to stick to a rigid schedule, having a predictable rhythm helps kids feel grounded. Try incorporating:

• Set wake-up and bedtimes

• Time blocks for reading, outdoor play, and screen time

• Weekly family activities or outings

2. Prioritize Connection

School provides natural social interaction. Without it, children can feel lonely—especially only children or those without nearby friends. Help by:

• Scheduling playdates or group activities

• Joining summer camps or community programs

• Having daily one-on-one check-ins to talk about feelings

3. Balance Downtime with Meaningful Activities

Too much downtime can lead to boredom or excessive screen time, while too much activity can cause burnout. Aim for a healthy mix of rest and enrichment. Ideas include:

• Nature walks or scavenger hunts

• Journaling, mindfulness coloring, or yoga

• Volunteering as a family to build empathy and connection

4. Monitor Screen Time Mindfully

Studies show that excessive screen time is linked to increased risk of anxiety and depression in children. The American Psychological Association recommends no more than 2 hours of recreational screen time per day for school-aged children. Create tech-free zones and encourage tech-free outdoor time or creative play.

5. Support Emotional Expression

Summer can be a time to slow down and help your child explore their feelings. Keep tools like:

• A “feelings journal” or emotion chart

• Calming spaces in the home (a “calm corner”)

• Daily reflection prompts like: “What made you happy today?” or “What was hard today?”

  
  

💬 Final Thought: Mental Health Doesn’t Take a Vacation

Summer is a perfect time to slow down and strengthen your child’s emotional toolbox. With the right mix of structure, connection, and creativity, you can help your child thrive—not just academically, but emotionally.

🧡 Want more weekly tips?Subscribe to our blog and follow @EmmelZealous on Instagram for child-friendly mindfulness activities, conversation starters, and support for every season.

Sources:

• American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP). “Helping Kids Transition from School to Summer.”

• National Summer Learning Association (NSLA).

• American Psychological Association (APA). “Media and Screen Time Guidelines.”