Preparing for School Break Transitions: Tips for a Smooth Summer

As the school year comes to a close, children and families look forward to summer—with its slower pace, longer days, and opportunities to recharge. But for many children, especially those who benefit from structured routines or specialized support, the transition into a school break can feel confusing or even stressful.

At Be Me, we understand how important it is to prepare for these transitions with care and intentionality. Here are some tips to help your child move smoothly from school routines to summer schedules.

1. Maintain a Consistent Daily Routine

Even though the structure of school is no longer in place, maintaining a predictable routine at home can provide children with a sense of stability.

Try to keep wake-up times, meal times, and bedtimes relatively consistent. You don’t need a rigid schedule—just a gentle rhythm that gives your child a sense of “what comes next.”

2. Use Visual Schedules and Calendars

Changes are easier to manage when children know what to expect. Use a visual calendar, schedule board, or daily chart to show upcoming activities, therapy sessions, or changes in the routine. Visuals are especially helpful for children who process information better nonverbally.

3. Plan Meaningful and Engaging Activities

While summer is a break from academics, it’s still important to keep children engaged.
Include activities your child enjoys and learns from—arts and crafts, nature walks, story time, or sensory play. Continuing with therapy sessions during the break can also provide consistency, help reinforce skills, and reduce regression.

4. Prepare for Change with Social Stories

Some children benefit from social stories or scripted conversations that explain what summer break is and how it will feel. This can reduce anxiety and create a sense of control. Practice transition moments ahead of time, like a “pretend last day of school” or a countdown calendar.

5. Be Patient and Validate Emotions

Every child reacts to change differently. Some may express frustration, others might withdraw. These are natural responses to unfamiliar routines. Stay calm, acknowledge their feelings (“I see this is hard for you”), and provide comfort. Even small adjustments take time to settle.

Need Extra Support This Summer?

At Be Me, we’re here to support your family through every season. Our summer therapy programs offer flexible scheduling, individualized sessions, and fun learning opportunities that keep your child progressing while enjoying their break. Click here to register.

Whether you're continuing ABA therapy, speech and language support, or learning assistance, we’re ready to help your child thrive this summer.