Summer is a great time for students (and school staff) to take a break from the regular routine of the school year. Many parents and caregivers want to know more about how to find that balance between providing a much needed break, and avoiding “brain mush” over the summer. We talked with school counselor Kristin Jeffries from Chicod School to gain some insight and tips for the summer!
PPS-PC: What words of wisdom do you have to offer about the importance of students having some time to relax and unwind during the summer, especially after a challenging school year?
Kristin Jeffries: Students and adults need time to relax and unwind. Taking trips, attending camps and having something planned a couple times a week is great to help students stay active and involved. However, take time to allow students to be creative and play outside or inside without devices.
Staying active will keep students physically and emotionally engaged throughout the summer. Electronics are not necessarily a negative, especially on a rainy afternoon. However, having time to disconnect from devices should be part of students’ daily routine.
PPS-PC: What suggestions do you have for ways to keep students engaged and connected during the summer, both on an academic and a social/emotional level?
Kristin Jeffries: A great way to stay engaged over the summer is to read. Allow students to find something that interests them and set a goal for each week. Finding small rewards for students to work towards helps to keep them motivated.
Keep a journal. Allow students to write or draw about their summer. This will help keep writing skills up but will also give them an outlet to express their feelings. If your student struggles with this give them a topic to focus on.
Talk. Spend time talking to your students. Allow them to express feelings, positive or negative, and listen. Students at different ages and maturity levels have different needs but spending intentional time with one another if especially important.
PPS-PC: What local resources would you recommend that families utilize this summer to help avoid a summer slump, while at the same time providing some rest and relaxation?
Kirstin Jeffries: Greenville and the surrounding areas have so much to offer families. The local parks and recreation departments are a great resource for students looking for a variety of different activities. There are also many local parks that provide an opportunity for students to stay active and be social.
Academically, reading, writing and math skills can be lost over the summer. There are a number of different review books that parents can use that provide a daily quick review for students to keep up their skills. Another option is to create a routine or checklist that allows students to practice their skills without making it like school every day. Thirty minutes a day is plenty of time for students to read, write a paragraph or practice math facts or skills. This can be done at a time that fits into the families schedule and if it doesn’t happen one day, it is okay.
PPS-PC: If students face mental health needs over the summer, what resources would you point them towards while school is not in session?
Kristin Jeffries: I would first encourage parents to listen to their student about their concerns. If students are willing to share their feelings it is important to take the time to listen and then decide on next steps.
If students are already seeing a mental health provider, that would be the first point of contact for any additional concerns. If they are not, I would encourage parents to reach out to the students’ pediatrician with their concerns of mental health. For immediate assistance parents can reach out to Mobile Crisis, 1-866-437-1821. This service is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
