Summer is coming, and for many of the youth and families we serve, summer break brings freedom and fun; but it can also disrupt the routines that help protect children’s mental health.

During summer, later bedtimes, less structure, and increased device use can quietly take a toll on the mental health of kids and teens. Research shows that poor or inconsistent sleep can affect children’s mood, emotional regulation, behavior, focus, and stress levels. Studies also link excessive screen time and irregular sleep schedules to higher anxiety and poorer overall wellbeing in adolescents.

Parents and caregivers can help support healthy minds this summer by:

• Keeping bedtime and wake-up times as consistent as possible
• Reducing screen time before bed
• Encouraging outdoor activity and movement each day
• Creating calm evening routines
• Checking in emotionally and making time to talk
• Watching for signs of stress, irritability, exhaustion, or withdrawal

Utilizing summer holiday programs through schools, counties, community centers, camps, and day care programs can be immensely beneficial to maintaining structure, providing exercise and brain stimulation, promoting healthy sleep, and creating opportunities for socialization.

Healthy routines help children feel safe, rested, resilient, and emotionally balanced. All of us here at Morrison wish you a safe and healthy summer!