For those of you with children in Montgomery County Public Schools or certain private schools, spring break is fast approaching. Children often love spring break. However, parents don't always, because it means lots of unstructured time for children. Here are a few simple tips to help improve the spring break experience for children and parents:
1) If your child thrives on structure, build structure into their spring break by creating a schedule for daily events. Get their input in the schedule when possible and write it out for them if needed. Here's an example:
8 AM Breakfast/getting ready
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9 AM Leave for museum
10 AM Visit specific museum
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12 PM Lunch at nearby restaurant
12:30 PM Go to nearby park to play
1:30 PM Leave to head home
2:30 PM Arrive home and watch movie
5 PM Complete chores
6 PM Dinner
2) Plan activities outside of the home if possible at least part of the break to provide your child with opportunities to get out. Activities could include museums, amusement parks, indoor rock climbing, pottery/painting, going to a sporting event, and other similar activities.
3) When spending time at home, if your child gets bored easily, help them to develop a schedule similar to the one listed under number 1. Activities could include playing outside (i.e., basketball, street hockey), completing a puzzle, playing video games, organizing their room/play area, watching movies, etc.
Spring break is a great time for children to relax and take a break from school. Help them to make the most of it by providing them with specific activities and structure as needed. Of course, if children are able to occupy themselves without significant structure and function successfully, it is ok to give them a break from strict structure.
I hope all of you reading this have a wonderful spring break with your children.
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Dr. Carey Heller is a licensed psychologist with The Heller Psychology Group LLC in Bethesda, Maryland. He specializes in work with children, adolescents, and families, and is happy to answer questions and provide consultations for individuals who are considering pursuing treatment, an evaluation, or other services for their child, adolescent, or themselves. Dr. Heller can be reached at (301)-385-2610 or careyheller@thehellerpsychologygroup.com.
*Disclaimer: The previous information is intended as general guidance based on my professional opinion, does not constitute an established professional relationship, and should not replace the recommendations of a psychologist or other licensed professional with whom you initiate or maintain a professional relationship*
