Summer Survival Tips for Children with Mental Health Needs: 5 Common Challenges and What You Can Do

At Childverse Inc., we know summer can bring both relief and new challenges for families raising children with mental health concerns. Without the structure of the school year, kids may struggle with anxiety, mood swings, or behavioral regression. To help you navigate the season, we’ve identified five common summer pain points—and how to address them with compassion and confidence.

1. Loss of Routine

Children with anxiety, ADHD, or mood disorders often thrive on structure. When school ends, their daily rhythm can be disrupted.

What to Do:
Create a gentle, flexible summer schedule. Include consistent wake/sleep times, meals, quiet time, and outdoor play. Use visual charts or calendars so children know what to expect. A predictable rhythm promotes emotional regulation.

2. Social Isolation

Without school peers, some children feel disconnected, which can worsen depression or anxiety.

What to Do:
Seek small, low-pressure social opportunities. Look into community groups, summer camps with mental health support, or virtual meetups through local organizations. Even weekly playdates or storytimes at the library can help.

3. Regression in Skills

Academic and emotional skills may backslide without practice.

What to Do:
Use fun learning tools like educational games, journaling, or summer reading programs. Encourage emotional skills through storytelling, role-play, or therapy worksheets. Short, consistent sessions are better than long ones.

4. Gaps in Services

Therapists and school-based providers may be unavailable over the summer.

What to Do:
Maintain continuity through telehealth platforms like Brightline or Talkspace. Ask if your child's provider offers summer check-ins. Consider community programs run by nonprofits or retired professionals offering mentorship or support.

5. Parental Burnout

Caring for a child with mental illness without breaks can be exhausting.

What to Do:
Schedule daily quiet time for yourself. Reach out to parent support groups like NAMI or Childverse’s summer coaching program. Even 15 minutes of rest, a walk, or connection with another adult can help restore your resilience.

You’re Not Alone

Summer doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With planning, support, and kindness toward yourself, you can help your child grow in stability and confidence—and enjoy the season together.