How a Simple Summer Routine Can Support Your Child’s Mental Health
Summer doesn't have to be chaotic to be fun.
At Creative Family Counseling and Coaching, we remind parents: just because school’s out doesn’t mean kids stop needing structure. In fact, a predictable rhythm can be one of the most powerful ways to support your child’s emotional health—especially during long, unstructured summer days.
Let’s explore how a simple routine can help your child feel calmer, safer, and more connected.
🧠 Why Do Kids Need Structure in Summer?
Summer starts with the best intentions—slow mornings, pajamas till noon, backyard fun. But after a few days? The whining begins. The sibling squabbles kick in. Kids start saying, “I’m bored!”
Here’s why: children crave predictability. Without it, their nervous systems can become overwhelmed, leading to irritability, anxiety, and meltdowns.
A summer routine can help by:
Providing a sense of safety and consistency
Supporting smoother transitions
Encouraging emotional regulation
Easing the shift back to school later
🕒 What a Healthy Summer Routine Can Look Like
You don’t need a strict timeline—just a few reliable anchor points during the day.
Here’s an easy sample rhythm:
8:00 AM – Wake-up, breakfast, get ready
9:00 AM – Morning chores
10:00 AM – Reading or quiet activity
11:00 AM – Independent play (indoors or outdoors)
12:00 PM – Lunch
1:00 PM – Quiet time or nap
2:00 PM – Activity time (crafts, outings, games)
5:00 PM – Bath/shower
6:00 PM – Dinner
7:00 PM – Screen time or family play
8:00 PM – Storytime + bedtime routine
Even just 1–2 dependable blocks each day can give your child a sense of calm and control.
🎨 Add Weekly Themes for Variety
Want to make your week feel fun and predictable? Try adding daily themes!
One creative approach we love comes from The Printable Fairy:
Make-It Monday (crafts and projects)
Thinking Tuesday (brain games and learning)
Water Day Wednesday (sprinklers or splash parks)
Take-a-Trip Thursday (library, hike, museum)
Fun Day Friday (movie night, backyard camping)
Selfless Saturday (acts of kindness)
Spontaneous Sunday (kids’ choice)
Themes add excitement while giving kids something to look forward to. You can follow this plan or create your own based on your family’s interests!
🧩 Let Kids Help Build the Plan
Kids are more likely to stick with routines they helped create.
Ask:
“Which theme sounds most fun to you?”
“When should we save time for play?”
“What helps you feel calm at night?”
Invite them to help draw a “Summer Day Map” or use stickers to visualize your week. It’s a great way to build buy-in and boost emotional confidence.
💬 Need Support?
Even with routines, some kids still struggle—and that’s okay. We’re here to help with play therapy, teen counseling, and parent coaching to support your family’s emotional well-being.
🧡 Final Thought
Freedom is wonderful—but freedom with rhythm creates emotional safety.
A simple summer routine can reduce stress, ease transitions, and make space for connection and calm.
Let this be the summer your family thrives—not just survives.
Written by Rebecca Muyres, LPC, CPCS, RPT-S, CCTP, CATP