Beating the Summer Slump
Summer can bring vacations, fun in the sun and beach days. However, as the summer ends and the new school year approaches, students might struggle getting back into a routine. The “summer slump” can refer to students’ lower academic performance at the start of a new school year due to lack of educational exposure during break as well as the overall lack of motivation at the start of the school year.
The temptations of summer and lack of structure can make it challenging to start the school year strong. If you or someone you know is experiencing the summer slump, explore the tips below to beat the end of summer blues.
Have an end-of-summer get together. Saying goodbye to summer doesn’t have to be hard. Students and parents alike can benefit from a final ‘summer send-off' celebration. Get together with loved ones and reminisce on your favorite parts of the summer. Being around some of your favorite people while eating your favorite foods can give you and your family the chance to enjoy summer one last time before the start of a new school year.
Create a schedule. An exciting summer can make it difficult for children and adults to maintain structure. Consider setting bedtimes and reducing screen time for you and your child as the summer comes to an end. You might feel more at ease if you create a calendar with important events and structure your days how you would during the school year. Doing this can help reduce the shock and stress of school when it starts.
Make the school year fun. Summer doesn’t have to be the only time you and your student can have fun. Each season has activities that you and your family can try. For example, fall can be a great time to go on nature walks and admire the leaves. You can also go apple picking, pumpkin carving and look for new fall-inspired recipes. This can introduce you to new experiences and give students something to look forward to.
Keep up the momentum. Summer’s end doesn’t have to mean all the hobbies or activities you participated in during summer must end too. Did your student pick up a new sport or did your family travel somewhere exciting? Encourage your student to keep up with new hobbies during the school year or start planning your next vacation.
Exercise. Fall means shorter days and less daylight, which means less time to be outside. Studies show that exercising releases serotonin and increases dopamine, chemicals in the body that can boost your mood. For both you and your student, getting enough exercise can stave off the autumn blues and keep you both healthy during the school year.
Giving summer the proper send-off can be bittersweet, but be sure to take that summer enthusiasm and bring it into fall!
