Summer Routines: Why Structure Matters Even During Holidays

As schools shut, so do the early mornings, the back to back classes, tuition, extracurricular, and the endless routines for them. But as shocking as it may be, as hateful as the routines may be: structure and routines are VERY important for a child. 

But let’s be honest: after the initial excitement fades, a few days of unlimited screen time, irregular meals, and late nights often leave everyone feeling… well, cranky. 😅

Children thrive on predictability. A predictable routine helps regulate their emotions, provides a sense of safety, and supports mental and physical health—even when school is out.

In my work as a child psychologist, I’ve seen this pattern again and again. While kids may initially resist routines, they actually function better—mentally, emotionally, and even socially—when there’s a sense of predictability in their day.

Here’s what the science (and experience) tells us:

• The brain loves patterns. Predictable schedules support brain development.
• Reduced anxiety: Knowing what comes next helps children, especially those with low confidence stay calm.
• Emotional regulation becomes better with routine. It also reduces tantrums in children
  
  

Tips to Make Routines Your Friend and Not Foe

• Involve Your Child in Planning: Involving children gives them a sense of ownership and reduces resistance. Try to get them involved in the activities and even prepare the routine chart. For example, ask them what they would like to do first, draw or play. Get them to use stickers, color/draw their own routine chart.

• Keep It Flexible: The goal isn’t perfection. Some days the routine would be magical, other days, it may just not work, no matter what you do. That is okay! Try to adapt to your capacity, instead of trying to follow the routine to the T.

• Add One “Responsibility Block”: Simple daily tasks help children build independence and feel capable. It also can help children understand consistency and discipline. This could be watering plants, helping in the kitchen, or cleaning up toys. 

Rhythm Over Rigidity

Summer routines aren’t about tracking your child’s every move. They’re about creating a rhythm or flow to the day that works for your child as well as your family context. It should support emotional comfort, encourage healthy habits, and support family harmony and not drag you into chaos.

With just a bit of planning, you can prevent burnout (for both you and your child), promote better behavior, and make room for all the joys that summer has to offer.

So go ahead—design a summer that blends relaxation, play, and just the right sprinkle of structure. And don’t forget to have a little fun yourself too.