5 Tips to Avoid the Summer Slide
“Summer Slide:” What Is It and What Can You Do?
The concept of the "summer slide," indicating potential academic decline among students during their break, is a genuine concern for parents. However, while the "summer slide" draws attention to academic regression, it's crucial to recognize the broader impacts of the summer season on adolescent mental health and behavior, including substance use trends. Understanding these dynamics can better inform strategies to support teens during their summer break.
For adolescents, summer can be a peculiar time, marked by disrupted school routines and reduced social interaction with peers. This lack of structured routine and social connection can have adverse effects on teen mental health. Researchers point out that the absence of school-related social support systems can lead to feelings of loneliness and anxiety over the summer months, potentially contributing to the onset or worsening of risky behaviors.
Alongside these mental health challenges, there is evidence of increased experimentation with drug use among teens during summer. Studies indicate that summer is a period when many teenagers first try substances such as LSD, cannabis, cocaine, ecstasy, and tobacco. This rise in drug use can stem from various factors including attempts to cope with mental health issues, increased free time leading to boredom, and pressures to use drugs at social gatherings.
To address the challenges stemming from the “summer slide,” here are some constructive suggestions to keep teenagers engaged and on the right track!
Tip 1: Get a Summer Job
Having a job presents an excellent opportunity for teenagers to cultivate skills such as responsibility, teamwork, time management, and financial literacy, among others. Summer employment also offers a supportive environment for teens to socialize, forge new friendships with colleagues, and bring structure to their summer months. If you have a teenager eligible to work (aged 14 and up), consider assisting them in securing a summer job. Keep in mind that teenagers under 18 will need a work permit from their school, typically available on the school's guidance counselor webpage. Once your teen is hired, you can download and fill out the work permit application together, which will also require signatures from their new employer.
Tip 2: Consider Volunteering
Volunteering offers an excellent alternative for younger teens who cannot yet secure a job due to age restrictions or may not be ready to take on all the responsibilities that come with employment. It allows teens to develop essential skills similar to those gained through a job and serves as a valuable addition to their resume. Employers highly value volunteer experience showcased on resumes. Check out the links below for available volunteer opportunities in Orange County!
Tip 3: Learn a New Skill
Acquiring new skills helps teens stay mentally and physically active, keeps their neural pathways active, and exposes them to fresh experiences and constructive challenges. Furthermore, learning new skills can boost confidence and foster a growth mindset, enhancing teens' personal and professional development. Discover opportunities at your local community centers to explore classes or clubs tailored for teens!
Tip 4: Get Active
Engaging in physical activities such as hiking, biking, yoga, or sports offers fun ways for teens to utilize their free time during the summer. These activities not only provide healthy opportunities for socializing and staying active but also stimulate the release of endorphins, which contribute to positive mental health. Encourage your teen to stay active with friends this summer and consider joining a local recreational club for added enjoyment!
Tip 5: Counseling with CYS
Adolescence often brings significant transitions and uncertainties about the future. Additionally, the "summer slide" phenomenon poses challenges for many teens and their families. CYS counselors offer support during this challenging period, providing guidance and a safe environment for teens to express themselves and navigate their stages of growth with confidence. CYS offers affordable counseling services to ensure accessibility for all!
Enroll your teen in counseling today!
Follow these links to read about opportunities in Orange County perfect for teens!
Employment Readiness/Assistance Programs
Youth Employment Services (YES) works
Volunteer Opportunities
For more volunteer opportunities, visit 211 Orange County
Written By: Aspen Dyer, ACSW
