Helping Children Through Big Transitions
End of School Year and Summer Schedule Changes
Guest Post by Ben Brower, Director of Family Preservation Services at
D.A. Blodgett – St. John’s
As we move toward the end of the school year and the transition into summer, Mental Health Awareness Month offers an important opportunity to recognize how changes in routine can significantly impact children and adolescents.
For many young people, the school year provides more than academics. It creates structure, predictability, social connection, access to support systems, and daily opportunities for emotional regulation. While summer can bring rest and freedom, it can also introduce challenges such as boredom, isolation, disrupted sleep schedules, increased screen time, and heightened emotional or behavioral concerns.
Preparing intentionally for this transition can help children maintain emotional wellness and reduce stress for the entire family.
From my perspective as a former school-based therapist working closely with children and families, one of the most important things we can do is create some level of consistency before summer begins. Children and teens often benefit from knowing what to expect, even if summer schedules are more relaxed than the structure of the school year.
Some simple ways families can support children during this transition include:
- Maintaining regular sleep and wake times
- Identifying meaningful activities and routines
- Encouraging social connection
- Having open conversations about feelings related to the end of the school year
These small steps can make a meaningful difference. Transitions can bring excitement for some youth, but for others they may bring anxiety, sadness, or dysregulation—especially for students who rely heavily on school-based relationships, counseling supports, or daily routines. Parents and caregivers should pay attention to changes in mood, withdrawal from activities, irritability, or increased conflict at home, as these can sometimes be signs that a child is struggling more than they are able to express verbally.
Maintaining consistency in mental health care during the summer months is also important. Denise Skonieczny, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner at DABSJ, encourages families to think proactively about continuing support and communication throughout the summer.
This may include:
- Ensuring follow-up appointments are scheduled
- Refilling medications ahead of time
- Keeping communication open with providers
“One question I often hear in the summer is whether children and adolescents should continue taking ADHD medication when school is not in session,” Denise shares. “While some families consider a ‘medication break,’ any decisions about stopping or adjusting medication should always be discussed with the prescribing provider rather than made independently.”
As Denise explains, ADHD symptoms affect much more than academics. They can impact relationships, emotional regulation, safety, self-esteem, participation in activities, and overall family functioning throughout the summer. For many children, continued medication support remains beneficial even outside of the classroom setting.
Ultimately, the transition into summer can be an opportunity to support children’s mental health through balance, connection, and thoughtful planning. Families do not need to create a perfectly structured summer, but children often do best when they continue to experience predictable routines, supportive relationships, opportunities for movement and socialization, and ongoing emotional support.
Mental Health Awareness Month reminds us that caring for mental health is not only about responding during times of crisis—it is also about being proactive, preparing for transitions, and helping children and families feel supported, connected, and equipped for success throughout the entire year.
How DABSJ can help
Changes in routine and structure can be difficult for children and adolescents, especially during transitions like the end of the school year and the start of summer. If emotional challenges, behavioral concerns, or mental health needs are impacting your child or your family’s wellbeing, support is available.
DABSJ offers psychiatric evaluations and medication management for children and youth ages 5–20. Our team works alongside families to better understand each child’s unique needs and help create supportive plans that promote emotional wellness, stability, and healthy routines throughout the year—including during seasonal transitions.
Support may include:
- Guidance and strategies to support emotional regulation and consistency at home
- Medication management when appropriate
- Ongoing psychiatric support and follow-up care
- Referrals to trusted professionals and community resources
As routines shift during the summer months, some children may experience increased anxiety, dysregulation, isolation, or behavioral changes. Reaching out early and maintaining consistent support can make a meaningful difference for both children and caregivers.
If you have concerns about your child’s emotional wellbeing, behavior, or mental health during the transition into summer, we encourage you to connect with our team. You do not have to navigate these challenges alone, and support is here when you need it.
