“Summer Break” – Those two simple words evoke memories of the exhilaration felt on the last day of school; the sense of freedom and joy knowing we had the entire summer to do as we pleased! What a rush!
Summer is a wonderful reprieve, and while children benefit from a break from the demands of school and related activities, structure is still an important component of their well-being. Children need and thrive in an environment that promotes consistency. It is especially helpful for children who have anxiety, ADHD, are on the Autism Spectrum, and with behavioral challenges. Knowing what to expect each day and having a plan helps alleviate stress for children. By no means must you schedule their day to be constantly engaged, it is summer after-all, but upholding routines as simple as bedtimes and meal times give a sense of reliability and structure to their day.
Keep Meal Times as Consistent as Possible
Keeping a meal time schedule that is close to what your children are used to during the school year is a very simple way to maintain consistency. A fun way to engage them in this routine could be to find age appropriate recipes that your child can join you in preparing for the family. This helps build their confidence and independence, while also developing a valuable skill and reinforcing family bonds. Another idea may be to make a weekly “special meal” by planning a picnic or special lunch/brunch or dinner out on the town.
Bath/Shower Times
Some children love bath time, others… not so much, and it is easy to let this routine slide during the summer months when the need is not so prominent. Yet, good hygiene is important for obvious reasons and helps develop good habits. It also signals your young one that it is winding down time, and prepares them for a restful sleep. This may be especially helpful if your child struggles with sleep issues, anxiety or restlessness.
Maintain Bed Times
Not only does this maintain consistency, but it also ensures that your child is well rested and ready for each day. As we have covered in previous articles (and as you know from experience!), lack of sleep, or inconsistent sleep can wreak havoc on young people’s ability to regulate their feelings and actions. Additionally, keeping a regular bedtime will make the back to school transition much easier!
Chores
Having a few regular chores to perform everyday not only reinforces routine, but also instills responsibility and an attitude of teamwork. Initially your child may balk at the concept, but if you present it to them as a way to help support the family unit, they may view it more as a contribution than a tedious chore. Letting them know that you appreciate their contribution and how helpful it is may also build confidence and feelings of self-worth.
Summer Day Camps
Summer day camps provide an ideal solution for structure. Even if you don’t require daytime care for your child(ren), summer camps and day camps have daily planned activities that can provide an outlet for staying active and social throughout the summer. Getting out and around others in a group environment supports their social development and prevents languishing. It also provides a calendar of events and daily schedule so kids know what to expect and look forward to.
For the Socially Anxious Child
If your child experiences social anxiety or is shy, some types of engagement may be difficult for them. Places such as summer camps may create intense anxiety, fear, and can overwhelm children. However, instead of nixing the idea altogether, consider giving them choices. You can express understanding, but also insist that they choose something on a smaller scale: like art, dance, or music classes. You may also suggest a smaller camp environment, or 1/2 day camp for children who get easily overwhelmed. See if they have a friend who will go to the camp with them, and let camp staff know that your child might need some help adjusting. For kids who are easily overwhelmed, they will do better with a very structured camp environment.
These options create opportunities for social interaction that will still keep them engaged with others, but in a less overwhelming presentation. By choosing an area of interest, they may also be more motivated to join and engage with others who share in those interests.
You can help prepare them for the upcoming activity by talking about it before-hand, listening to their concerns and fears, rehearsing how to respond in situations of concern, and setting small, achievable goals. Breaking it down into manageable parts helps make it feel less profound than contemplating it as a whole.
Make a Summer Bucket List
Either together or separately, you and your child(ren) can create a list of things you would like to do or see during the summer. As a family, collaborate on which ones are doable and get excited! You could visit museums, zoos, parks, festivals, amusement parks, etc. You can keep it local and low key by checking out the events your local library offers, camp in the backyard, have an outdoor movie night, or plan a weekend stay at a hotel just for the fun of it! Making plans such as these creates a long-view type of consistency, and gives everyone something to look forward to. This is similar in ways to traditional holidays and celebrations. It may even build new traditions that your children carry on with their children!