Supporting the transition from school to Summer Holidays

As the school gates close for the last time this school year, children, families, and teachers will be stepping into a different rhythm: the summer holidays! While the break is often seen as a time for rest and having fun, the transition from the structured world of school into the unstructured days of summer can be both exciting and unsettling, especially for children who thrive on routine, support, and predictability.

We understand that transitions are not just about physical movement from one place to another. They’re emotional and psychological journeys too. So how can we help children navigate the shift from school life to holiday freedom with confidence, connection, and calm?

The importance of a well thought out transition

For some children, the last day of school is filled with excitement, anticipation, and celebration. For others, it brings anxiety, uncertainty, and even sadness. The children will be saying goodbye to teachers they trust, friends they see daily, and routines that help them feel safe.

Without the familiar structure of school, some children may struggle with:

• Emotional regulation

• A lack of routine

• Feelings of loneliness or boredom

• Anxiety about returning in September

Acknowledging these challenges is the first step in addressing them.

Strategies for a Smooth Transition

Here are a few ideas that parents and teachers can use to ease the move into summer:

1. Celebrate Closure

Create a moment of reflection and celebration for what the child has achieved over the year. This could be a mini ‘graduation’, a memory book, or just a conversation about proud moments. Marking the end helps children process change.

2. Create a Gentle Structure

While the holidays should feel different from school, a light structure to the day, such as morning routines, mealtimes, and quiet times, can give children a sense of stability and certainty.

3. Build in Connection

Schedule time for connection whether it’s with friends, family, or the broader community, i.e clubs. Connection combats loneliness and builds resilience.

4. Prepare for September (towards the end of August!)

Avoid focusing too early on the next school year. Let children enjoy the break, but as the return date nears, gently reintroduce routines and talk positively about what’s next. You can even try on uniform and talk about the school timetable i.e. when break and lunch happen and what time the day ends.

5. Keep Communication Open

Encourage children to talk about their feelings; both excitement and worry are valid. Be ready to listen without rushing to fix.

For teachers: Handing Over with Care

Teachers and school staff play a vital role in preparing children for the break. Thoughtful handovers, personalised goodbyes, and small routines of closure can leave a lasting, positive impression.

Here are a few simple ideas:

• Send-off letters from teachers with affirmations and well wishes

• Transition books for those who need additional support

• Summer resource packs with ideas for learning through play

In the meantime, and when the time comes, all of us at Now, Next & Then hope you and yours have a lovely summer break.

Emma Puttock
Children’s Occupational Therapist