It’s Summer, school’s out and families might be looking for creative activities to replace the school structure with fun and engaging things for children to do during summer break.
Here are some tips for kids to help them stay “mentally healthy” and on top of their school “smarts.”
- Read: It is essential to encourage your child to pick up a book (or a few). A study by The Reading Agency indicates nonacademic reading allows for better parent-child communication, increased self-esteem and empathy, reduced symptoms of anxiety and depression, and improved overall wellbeing.
- Plan activities: Structured activities have been shown to improve mental resiliency by allowing kids to interact with others and develop a sense of independence.
- Get outside: Even a bike ride or a walk ignites all of the senses, increases Vitamin D, boosts mental confidence and improves nonverbal communication.
- Turn off the TV/Video games and get active: Exercise encourages the brain to release endorphins (“feel good” hormones), especially in the summer when heat can put stress on children. Swimming is a great source of exercise and mood improvement.
- Craft: Crafts are great indoor alternatives which promotes confidence, concentration and self-awareness.