School’s Out for Summer! HOOD RIDING Lile Red “When does the pool open?” “Can we get ice cream?” “I’m bored.” Sound familiar? These are the sounds of summer along with laughter and playing. For most kids, it’s a time to relax and play without a schedule and schoolwork. But for some kids, the lack of routine and expectations can produce intense anxiety and stress. Here are some ways parents can combat these feelings: • Make a summer plan that includes an agreement between kids and parents. Designate an area where parents can list what they need and expect during the summer. Working parents may need kids to give them an hour of quiet time a day or to play independently during Zoom calls without interruption. Create a loose structure for play at home. Print and display it as a guide so kids k n o w w h at t o ex p e c t e a c h d ay. Remember that unstructured play and even boredom leads to creativity. Let kids choose a project to work on throughout the summer. Completing it can help with confidence. It can be to read a certain amount of books or try a new instrument or art class. Allow children to choose family outings and schedule them. Giving them a role in summertime plans can help them learn how to plan and organize ahead of time. Arrange playdates to assure children still maintain friendships and social interaction. Take on challenges. Have your child name one thing they want to learn or overcome, like swimming the length of the pool or riding their bike without training wheels. Find opportunities to volunteer as a family. Giving back to the community creates a lasting bond and shows kids how to support others in need. Don’t ease up too much on restrictions, like screentime, sleepovers, or bedtime. It will make the transition back to school e a s i e r, a n d c h i l d r e n t h r i ve w i t h boundaries. • • • • • • • 705 Waterloo Rd. Warrenton, VA 20186 1PM & 4PM | Tickets: $21/person WWW.WARRENTONBALLETCENTER.COM 20 Discover Fauquier ■ June/July 2025 To advertise: Fauquier High School In times of extreme anxiety help kids practice the 3-3-3 grounding technique. Have them name three things they can see, three things they can hear, and three things they can feel. This can help get their focus outside their heads and into their present environment. by Renee Norden Executive Director The Mental Health Association of Fauquier County 540-349-8060 www.discoverypubs.com