5 Tips to Reduce Summer Stress
Summer can be a fun time for children and families, but it can also be stressful when kids are out of school. Summers are supposed to be about vacation, water sports, ice cream, and other fun outdoor activities with your children and family. However, when routines are disrupted, and kids become bored it can lead to a more stressful experience. Parents must find their children activities to engage in or find somewhere for their children to go. Summer activities can be hard to find and very expensive. This can all lead to an increase in stress for the entire family. Here are some ways to deal with summer stress when your kids are out of school.
Establish a Routine
Children spend every day in the classroom in a routine. With school being out, it is important to keep a routine for your children to ensure a sense of stability. This can include meal times, bedtimes, and designated times for outdoor activities. Having a routine creates a sense of structure and reduces kids feeling overwhelmed for both kids and parents.
Plan Activities
Plan activities that are fun and educational for your kids. This may include going to the park, zoo, joining the local library summer reading program, playing board games, or just playing outside with other children. By planning activities ahead of time, you can keep your kids engaged and prevent them from becoming bored.
Get Outside
Spending time outside can reduce summer stress for children and parents. Go for a walk, bike ride, nature walks, or play outdoor games. If it gets too hot, visit your local splash pad or travel to a water park.
Take Time for Yourself
As a parent, it is important for your to take care of your needs and recharge to keep your summer stress levels lower. Schedule time for activities that you enjoy while your kids are playing or sleeping such as reading, exercising, or taking a nap yourself. Call other parents for play dates so you can spend more time with your friends.
Set Boundaries
It is important to have fun and enjoy your summer, but you must also set boundaries for your children. Consider the following for your kids: limiting screen time, establishing rules for behavior in your home, and setting aside time for chores.
By following these tips, you can help to reduce your summer stress and enjoy the summer with your children. Pay attention to how you feel and how your children are behaving. If you find yourself stressed out during the summer, prioritize these tips to help you survive summer stress.
About the Author:
Jennifer Riche, LPC, specializes in working with children who struggle with a variety of life’s challenges. She works with a team of highly trained therapists who understand how to help those struggling with difficult emotions find the relief they are seeking. Be Inspired Counseling & Consulting’s mission is to inspire hope for change to help individuals move forward and live fully. Click here to schedule an appointment today.
Other Services Offered at Be Inspired:
Child counseling isn’t the only service provided at our Alexandria, LA and Natchitoches, LA locations. We also offer online therapy, trauma therapy, grief counseling, and anxiety treatment. In addition, we also offer adult counseling and teen counseling. Feel free to visit our consulting services, FAQ, or blog pages for helpful info!
