As the school year winds down and summer approaches, many children—and parents—look forward to a well-earned break. But while summer brings freedom, fun, and sunshine, the shift from the structure of school days to the relaxed pace of summer can sometimes cause stress, disruption, or behavioral changes in young children. That’s why it’s important to help children transition smoothly, maintaining a sense of routine and purpose while still enjoying all the season has to offer.
Why Transitions Matter
Children thrive on consistency. During the school year, their days are filled with predictable routines: morning drop-offs, learning time, meals, recess, and bedtime. When that structure disappears, some children may struggle with the change, leading to difficulty sleeping, emotional outbursts, or boredom. Supporting this transition means creating a flexible summer rhythm that still offers familiarity, security, and engagement.
1. Establish a Summer Routine
While summer doesn’t have to follow the same tight schedule as the school year, having a basic daily routine helps children feel secure and balanced. Consider setting consistent times for waking up, meals, playtime, and bedtime. Build in opportunities for free play, reading, outdoor time, and rest. Simple rituals like morning stretches or an afternoon snack together can anchor the day and give children something to look forward to.
2. Plan Engaging Activities
Without structured schoolwork, children may feel restless or turn to screen time out of boredom. Plan ahead by creating a list of fun, engaging activities to avoid this. Think nature walks, splash days, crafts, music time, or themed “days of the week” like “Water Wednesday” or “Field Trip Friday.” While it’s important to leave room for spontaneity, having go-to ideas helps keep children stimulated and learning through play.
3. Encourage Continued Learning
Just because school is out doesn’t mean learning has to stop. Reading books together, visiting the library, practicing counting through games, or exploring science with backyard experiments are great ways to keep children’s minds active. Keep the activities light and fun—this isn’t about homework but about encouraging curiosity and reinforcing skills in an enjoyable way.
4. Foster Independence and Responsibility
Summer is a great time to encourage children to take on age-appropriate responsibilities around the home. Simple tasks like making their bed, helping pack snacks, or assisting with watering the garden help children build confidence and stay grounded in a sense of purpose.
5. Support Emotional Well-Being
Remember that these transitions affect children emotionally. Leaving behind friends, teachers, and daily routines can stir up unexpected feelings. Create space for your child to express how they feel about the change. Whether they’re excited, nervous, or sad, validating their emotions will help them feel heard and supported.
The transition from school to summer doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By maintaining a loose routine, keeping children engaged with meaningful activities, and supporting their emotional needs, parents can help ensure a smooth and happy shift into the new season. At EOCDC, we believe that every child deserves a summer filled with fun, growth, and the security of a supportive environment. Visit our website for more tips and resources for families!