Encourage independent thinking

Asking children and teens what they want from summer can be important. This means they aren’t shepherded into endless activities when they need downtime or have nothing to do. Having a conversation about plans for the summer, any goals they want to achieve, and activities they want to try can help to create structure this summer without being overwhelming. +

Try something new

New experiences can be a fantastic way to build confidence. From trying something new to realising they have undiscovered skills can all help increase positivity, enthusiasm, and happiness. Without building an overwhelmingly busy summer schedule, are there opportunities to try new activities throughout the summer?

Empower with chores!

This may seem strange, but entrusting your child with a chore for the summer can help to build independence and responsibility that can help to increase confidence. For example, it could be cooking one meal a week for the family, being in charge of the daily dog walk or planning days out in the summer. Creating a responsibility can give a child a purpose through summer, developing independence, and independent thinking.

Celebrate achievements

During school terms, you may celebrate praise from school, exam results or academic achievements. However, during summer, it’s easy to overlook other accomplishments outside of school. For example, helping others, trying something new, creating something or reading a book.