From Report Cards to Real Talk: Supporting Your Child's Mental Health Post-School Year

June marks the end of another school year, a time of mixed emotions for children and teens. There are some who find it pure relief: no more early alarms, homework, or stressful exams. Others, however, may feel anxious about next year, sad over social changes, or bored from a lack of routine. As a parent, you can support your child's mental health during this transitional period, helping them decompress from academic stress.

This article offers tips for supporting your child during this emotionally stressful time and examines how the end of the school year impacts children's and teens' mental health.

Understanding the Emotional Shift

There can be a jarring transition from structured school days to unstructured summer breaks. Besides education, school provides children with social engagement, routine, and a sense of purpose. It is possible to experience a variety of emotional reactions when that structure is gone:

• Post-school stress. There can be lingering anxiety about grades, performance, or next year's challenges even after the school year is over.

• Summer break anxiety. For kids who crave routine, summer can feel overwhelming.

• Social disconnection. It can be difficult to cope emotionally when you miss friends or feel uncertain about future friendships.

• Boredom. It is possible for children to feel unmotivated or restless if they are not exposed to daily lessons and activities.

Even though these emotional states are normal, they can affect your child's mental health if they aren't dealt with properly.

1. Foster Open Communication

At the end of the school year, it is a great time for you to check in with your child emotionally. But, you should resist the temptation to jump into summer activities before acknowledging the transition. Instead, start with simple, open-ended questions, like:

• “How are you feeling about the school year ending?”

• “What’s something you’re proud of from this year?”

• “Is there anything you’re nervous about for next year?”

In creating a safe environment, you should make sure your child feels heard rather than judged or "fixed." Teenagers may be hesitant to share right away, so be patient and consistent. In some cases, casual conversations on walks, in cars, or over a meal enable a closer connection.

In addition, you should validate their feelings, even if you don't share them with them. By saying "I understand how frustrating that would be," trust and emotional safety can be strengthened.

2. Manage Screen Time Without Power Struggles

Kids often turn to screens as a means of escaping boredom or stress during summer. Even though some screen time can be relaxing, excessive use can have negative effects on sleep, mood, and social interactions. Therefore, establish realistic screen boundaries early by:

• Co-create an offline, play, and rest schedule for the summer with your family and friends.

• Whenever possible, use parental controls, but emphasize healthy habits over punishments.

• Encourage tech-free zones, such as before bed and during meals.

You don't need to ban screens altogether -- just keep a balance in mind. Instead of just recognizing it as a rule, frame it as a way to feel better. For example, "Too much YouTube leads to grogginess and irritability. Let’s also build in time for other fun stuff, too.”

Also, consider creative or active alternatives to screen time, such as journaling, board games, nature walks, or simple DIY projects.

3. Encourage Healthy Summer Routines

Although summer should feel like a break for kids, they still benefit from some structure. A predictable but loose daily rhythm can help regulate sleep, improve mood, and reduce anxiety.

To maintain a healthy summer routine, pay attention to these elements:

• Sleep hygiene. Consistently set bedtimes and wake-up times for your children. When it comes to regulating emotions, even an hour or two of consistency makes a difference.

• Physical activity. Whenever possible, schedule time for physical activity, whether it is biking, sports, swimming, or even dance breaks at home.

• Nutrition. Maintain a regular, balanced diet while enjoying occasional treats. While summer snacking is fun, it shouldn't replace real meals.

• Learning. Take advantage of low-pressure activities like library visits, puzzles, and science experiments to keep the brain engaged.

Consider using a daily checklist or family calendar instead of a rigid schedule. By helping plan their week, kids can feel autonomous and purposeful.

4. Help Them Process Academic Stress

Even if the report card is "fine," kids may struggle academically, compare themselves with others, or feel under pressure. There are children who worry they didn't do well enough, while there are others who dread starting over in the fall, especially if it has been a difficult year.

Here's how you can help:

• Talk about effort, not just results. Instead of focusing on grades, emphasize growth and perseverance.

• Normalize setbacks. Be sure to let them know that learning is not a linear process, and it is okay for them to struggle.

• Avoid over-scheduling summer “catch-up” plans. Don't overload kids with tutoring unless they're on board with summer learning. Rather than feeling punitive, academic recovery should feel supportive.

• Address fears about next year. You may want to gently explore your concerns about changing schools, teachers, or peer groups. Reassure them, but don't dismiss their concerns.

Children who feel safe discussing academic challenges are more likely to develop resilience and a better relationship with learning.

5. Support Social Transitions

The summer brings social disconnection, one of the most noticeable changes. As classmates go their separate ways, regular peer interaction decreases. This might be difficult for younger children who might miss their best friend. Teenagers may feel isolated and dramatic when group dynamics change.

You can help your child maintain a healthy social life in a way that feels natural and stress-free by following these tips:

• Schedule playdates or hangouts, but let your child take the lead.

• You can introduce them to new friends by recommending summer camps, hobby groups, or volunteer activities.

• Talk to older kids about social media usage. As a way to stay connected, social media can also fuel anxiety and comparison if not used appropriately.

If your child feels left out or lonely, validate those feelings and brainstorm ways to make them feel more connected. It's okay for friendships to evolve, and sometimes all they need is a reminder.

6. Watch for Signs of Emotional Distress

Even though your child may experience some emotional ups and downs, be mindful of signs that they might need additional support:

• An ongoing feeling of sadness, irritability, or withdrawal

• A change in sleep or appetite

• They are no longer engaging in activities that they used to enjoy

• Headaches, stomachaches, and other physical complaints without a clear cause

• Feeling hopeless or discussing self-worth

If these signs persist for more than a couple of weeks, consider reaching out to a pediatrician, therapist, or school counselor. Early support can make a huge difference in long-term mental health.

Final Thoughts: Use Summer to Strengthen Resilience

Summer doesn't need to be packed with activities and achievements. This is actually a perfect time to reset, refocus, and reflect because the pace is slower.

When you model healthy habits, encourage balance, and stay emotionally present, you empower your child to navigate this transition with greater confidence and resilience. A child's strongest foundation comes from their support, regardless of whether or not they are celebrating the end of the school year.