Summer’s Last Splash: Make It Count with Fun and Self-Care
End -of-Summer Ideas That Balance Fun and Back-to-School Readiness from a Maryland anxiety therapist
Summer time gives us—yes, even us adults—the opportunity to step back from our day-to-day obligations and do things like travel, reconnect with loved ones, spend more time outdoors, or simply slow down and recharge in ways we often overlook during the hustle of everyday life.
As summer comes to an end, here are some simple yet rewarding things you can do to close out the season with a bang—while also showing yourself some much-needed care. These easy activities give us a chance to pause from the mundane tasks we’re often bogged down with and reconnect with ourselves in a loving, nurturing way.
Your brain needs a break—self-care matters
Extensive research has shown a strong connection between physical health and self-care. Taking care of your body through regular exercise, good nutrition, and enough sleep can lower the risk of serious illnesses like heart disease and cancer. It also helps strengthen your immune system, making it easier to fight off common illnesses.
Beyond physical benefits, self-care can improve your mood, boost self-esteem, and increase your ability to focus and pay attention. When you prioritize these habits, you not only support your body but also enhance your overall well-being and mental clarity. So why wouldn’t you want this kind of healthy recipe in your life?
Activities parents can do with their children to support regulation, reduce anxiety, and ease the back-to-school transition.
Summer outings can remain enjoyable while also supporting therapeutic goals. Mindfulness scavenger hunts at local parks or trails are a great way to encourage present-moment awareness and sensory regulation. Simple prompts like “find something soft” or “listen for three different sounds” help kids and teens with ADHD or anxiety stay grounded and engaged in their surroundings.
Another low-pressure option is attending sensory-friendly movie matinees, which offer reduced lighting and sound for a more comfortable experience. These outings provide a safe space for neurodiverse individuals to enjoy shared activities while building social tolerance and flexibility.
Try staying social with purpose.
Consider scheduling weekly game nights with friends or family. Board games, card games, or even cooperative video games can promote cognitive flexibility, emotional regulation, and social skills—all within a fun and familiar setting. Choose games that balance structure with creativity and include time to decompress if overstimulation occurs.
You might also rotate hosts if playing with other families. This can help build comfort with transitions and new environments, preparing kids for the return to school routines.
Ways parents can prioritize their own self-care to maintain inner balance and resilience during this busy season.
As summer winds down, it’s important for parents to find a balance between preparing for the upcoming school year and tending to their own well-being. Carving out even small moments of self-care can make a meaningful difference.
This might look like taking a quiet morning walk, scheduling a coffee with a supportive friend, or practicing a few minutes of mindfulness after the kids are in bed. Prioritizing your own calm and recharge helps build the resilience needed for the busy months ahead.
At the same time, involve your child in gentle back-to-school preparation. Creating visual schedules together, gradually adjusting sleep routines, or visiting the school can ease anxiety and build confidence. By pairing intentional self-care with supportive planning for your child, you’ll create a balanced approach that promotes calm, connection, and smoother transitions for the whole family.
If the activity supports well-being and feels good, consider making it a regular part of your routine—even beyond the summer months.
Mindful exploration, low-pressure social time, and gradual preparation for transitions can all help build lasting habits that promote calm and readiness year-round. By continuing these practices, you create a foundation of emotional balance and practical skills that ease stress and support your family through school and everyday life.
