Struggling to keep emotional meltdowns or screen-time battles in check this summer? You’re not alone. Summer offers a much-needed break for kids, but without school, many lose structure, social interaction, and healthy routines. Without support, this can lead to anxiety, boredom, and screen time that doesn’t support long-term development.
The good news? This time away from the classroom offers a valuable opportunity to support your child’s emotional growth and overall behavioral health. With simple, thoughtful actions at home, families can build positive mental health habits that last beyond summer. At Maryvale, we support children and women with children through programs focused on child development, trauma-informed care, and evidence-based therapies. Below are five practical ways to nurture your child’s mental health this summer, inspired by our daily work with families.
-
Prioritize Screen-Free Quality Time
Excessive screen time can increase anxiety, lower self-esteem, and disrupt sleep, especially in young children. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends daily tech limits and regular in-person connection.
Try setting a daily screen schedule, then replace one or two screen-heavy routines with something offline and interactive. Family dinners, board games, puzzles, or reading together are great options. These moments don’t need to be elaborate; they just need to be intentional.
Spending quality time together helps kids feel seen, heard, and secure. It builds trust, deepens emotional bonds, and strengthens communication.
At Maryvale, our family programs, including marriage and family therapy, help families incorporate these habits into daily life. Our parenting support resources also guide families in setting healthy limits and creating routines together.
-
Encourage Open Conversations About Emotions
Children who talk about their emotions tend to have fewer behavioral problems and stronger coping skills. But emotional literacy is learned.
Start by modeling the behavior. Share your feelings and name your emotions: “I felt nervous before my meeting, but deep breathing helped me.” Ask your child open-ended questions like, “What was the best part of your day?” or “What made you feel frustrated?”
Younger children often respond well to emotion charts or picture books about feelings. Above all, focus on listening and validating rather than fixing. “It’s okay to feel disappointed” is often more helpful than trying to change their feelings.
This kind of communication is central to trauma-informed care, which we use across our services at Maryvale. Through our Family Resource Center, we help families strengthen their emotional vocabulary and create safe spaces for expression, giving kids the tools to manage big feelings.
-
Get Outside Together
Spending time outdoors supports emotional health by boosting mood, lowering stress, and encouraging physical activity—getting kids moving. Nature doesn’t have to be far away. Take a walk around the block, head to the local park, or try a backyard scavenger hunt. Let your child plan the day; giving them a sense of control can ease anxiety.
Try blending mindfulness with movement: listen for birds or count how many colors you see. These small moments of presence can help children feel grounded and calm.
At Maryvale, outdoor activities are an important part of behavioral therapy for kids. Movement helps with sensory regulation, focus, and expression, especially for children facing trauma or health challenges. That’s why our early education and summer support programs often include outdoor learning as part of whole-child development.
-
Create Calm Spaces at Home
Children need predictable, quiet spaces to regulate their emotions. A calm space sends a powerful message: “You’re allowed to feel, and here's a safe place to do that.” You don’t need much to create this space—just a soft pillow, calming art supplies, or a favorite stuffed animal. Let your child help set it up and give it a name like “calm corner” or “quiet zone.”
Use this space for quiet play, reading, or decompressing, not as a punishment. Establish routines around it, such as visiting it after lunch or before bed.
At Maryvale, our youth-focused intensive outpatient programs and cognitive behavioral therapies follow the same principles. Safe spaces support emotional processing and help children build lasting coping skills.
-
Keep Structure Without Pressure
Structure helps children feel safe and in control, but strict schedules can create stress. A flexible, predictable daily rhythm supports emotional regulation, especially for kids facing challenges or recovering from instability.
Create a simple daily routine that includes time for play, rest, meals, learning, and family time. Then, let your child decide how to follow it. For example, let them choose the order of activities or pick the next book to read. This choice-based structure reduces power struggles and helps children feel respected. It’s especially effective for children in behavioral health programs.
Maryvale’s focus on child development includes helping families find a structure that works for them. Our programs promote mental and emotional stability through communication, consistency, and personalized support.
___________________________________________________________________________
Maryvale’s Role in Supporting Children’s Mental Health
Maryvale provides trauma-informed, whole-child care for children and women with children. From cognitive behavioral treatment and marriage and family therapy to community-based mental health services, our programs focus on long-term stability and healing. Our services include:
- Mental Health Services: outpatient therapy, wraparound support, and intensive outpatient programs
- Early Education Programs: with a focus on social-emotional learning
- Family Resource Center: workshops, support groups, and parenting guidance
With over 168 years of experience, Maryvale continues to meet children and families where they are, walking alongside them toward healing and growth.
___________________________________________________________________________
Why Donations and Support Matter
Maryvale offers accessible care to families regardless of income or background. Your support helps fund therapy, summer learning, parenting workshops, and early intervention programs. In 2023, 97% of children in our mental health programs showed improved functioning after consistent participation.
Your donation helps make these services possible, ensuring more families have access to long-term healing. You can donate or get involved as a volunteer to make a meaningful difference.
This summer, you can support your child’s emotional well-being by:
- Limiting screen time and spending more quality time together
- Encouraging open conversations about feelings
- Getting outside as a family
- Creating calm, safe spaces at home
- Maintaining structure while allowing room for choice
You don’t have to do it alone. Whether you’re searching for a mental health therapist, a clinic, or ongoing family support, Maryvale is here to help. Visit maryvale.org to learn more, donate, or connect with programs that support your family’s well-being.
