Summer Safety Series: Protecting Mental Health During Busy Summers

Summer schedules are often packed with camps, vacations, sports, family gatherings, and activities. While this season can bring joy and connection, it can also bring stress, overstimulation, disrupted routines, and exhaustion for both children and parents.

Many children thrive on structure, and sudden routine changes can increase anxiety, emotional outbursts, or behavioral struggles. Parents may also feel pressure to “make summer special,” leading to burnout and overwhelm.

Here are a few ways families can support mental wellness this summer:
• Keep consistent sleep routines when possible.
• Allow for downtime and quiet moments.
• Encourage outdoor play and movement.
• Limit excessive screen time.
• Check in emotionally with children regularly.
• Remember that rest is productive too.

Parents should also give themselves grace. Not every day has to be perfectly planned or Pinterest-worthy. Some of the best summer memories come from simple moments together.

At the heart of summer safety is caring for the whole person — physically, emotionally, and mentally.