How to keep your child on track and healthy during spring break

When children have down time in school or their daily routine the stress often falls on the parents. Kids with mental health issues particularly do better when there is structure and routine. Without it, they’re more prone to anxiety and oppositional behaviors. Here are some tips to help you maintain a schedule and keep time off school rewarding for the entire family.

STRUCTURE: Maintain a Schedule

This school year has not been easy and there have been many challenges kids faced as they headed back in the classroom. Just because a child needs a break, doesn’t mean they should be left without structure. Over spring break (or any holiday break) set an activity, chore, or goal for that day. It can be as simple as watching a movie or something more complex like, a project, outing, or chore. A structured day will help keep their behavior in rhythm.

Plan ahead

As a parent, your schedule is important and often less flexible than your child’s. Remember to plan any activities or play dates ahead of time. Coordinate outings with other parents or family members so you have something on the calendar during this time. It makes a holiday break or time off go that much smoother.

don’t change the rules

Just because it is spring break or vacation, doesn’t mean rules can be let go of. If you relax the rules, this invites your child to “test your limits”. They will see how much they can get away with once they see you’re allowing exceptions.

Develop traditions and rituals

Family cohesion is built by having traditions and rituals. Research has shown us that having high levels of family cohesion and support are related to good coping skills. Build meaningful, memorable moments with your kids. Make sure you plan ahead to be able to spend uninterrupted quality time with your child.

As always, we’re here to help.