Supporting Your Teen This Summer: Navigating the Transition from School to “Nothing”

Summer break can be a relief from academic pressure, but for many teens, the transition from school to a wide-open schedule can feel unsettling. Without structure, social connections, or a sense of purpose, some teens may struggle emotionally. As a parent, knowing how to support your teen through this seasonal shift can make all the difference.

School gives teens a clear routine, social interaction, and goals to work toward. When summer arrives, many go from a packed schedule to… well, nothing. That loss of structure can lead to:

• Increased anxiety or depression

• Feeling unmotivated or "lazy"

• Heightened irritability or withdrawal

• More screen time and less physical activity

• Disconnection from friends and community

This shift can also amplify pressure to “make the most” of summer—whether socially, academically, or with college prep—which only adds to stress.

Therapist’s Perspective

This transition isn’t just about managing time; it’s about managing identity. Teens often define themselves through school, sports, or clubs. Summer removes these anchors. Supporting your teen means validating their feelings while gently helping them create structure, connect to others, reclaim a sense of purpose, and embrace boredom. Think of it as helping them find their “why” again—without rigid expectations.

Solutions & Strategies

1. Start with Compassion, Not Criticism
   Instead of saying, “You’re wasting the summer,” try:
   “It seems like this unstructured time is feeling kind of heavy—want to talk about it?”
   Approach with curiosity, not judgment.

2. Co-Create a Flexible Routine
   Teens thrive on autonomy, so collaborate with them. Build in:

   1. Morning start time

   2. Movement (walk, swim, stretch)

   3. Social time (even if virtual)

   4. Projects or goals (like art, volunteering, or a summer job)

   5. Downtime

3. Normalize the “Nothingness”
   Let your teen know that feeling a little lost is actually normal. The gap between structure and freedom is a place of growth—even if it feels uncomfortable at first.

4. Encourage Rest AND Purpose
   It’s okay for teens to rest. But also offer opportunities to feel purposeful:

   1. Ask about interests they haven’t had time to explore

   2. Suggest low-pressure creative outlets

   3. Support part-time work, volunteering, or skill-building if they’re open to it

5. Stay Connected
   Teens may pull away, but consistent connection matters. Invite them on errands, walks, or to help plan a weekend outing. Even if they resist, the offer shows you care.

6. Watch for Emotional Shifts
   If your teen is isolating completely, expressing hopelessness, or showing signs of depression or anxiety, it may be time to involve a therapist. You don’t have to do it alone.

Conclusion

The space between school and summer can feel like falling through the cracks—but it can also be an opportunity to slow down, reset, and explore new parts of your teen’s identity. With support, structure, and a whole lot of patience, summer doesn’t have to feel like “nothing.” It can be the beginning of something meaningful.