Serving the Lowcountry and Coastal Empire of Georgia and South Carolina.
Monday, June 9, 2025
School is out, and summer adventures are in full swing! While sunscreen and swim safety are essential, this guide goes a step further. We’re sharing thoughtful reminders and expert-backed tips to help your child get the most out of summer in more meaningful ways.
And not just any kind—free play. The older they are, the more they benefit from unsupervised, unstructured play. That means no adults directing the action, solving problems, helicoptering or negotiating disputes. Ideally, this happens in mixed-age groups.
Yes, this kind of play can result in bruised knees, conflict, hurt feelings, and even (gasp!) boredom. That’s not only okay, it’s essential. This is how kids develop independence, resilience, and crucial executive function skills like:
Let your children have this vanishing experience. You don’t need to act like a cruise ship director, creating a full schedule of fun and learning. In fact, it’s better if you don’t.
It looks different, of course, but in person, face-to-face time with peers is still key. These social interactions help teens continue practicing the same vital skills they’ll need in adulthood.
Children do not need screens to thrive. In fact, boredom is a gateway to creativity, independence, and problem-solving. Screen time should never be the default activity.
A reminder of our recommendation:
Make space for real books every day—at least 20–30 minutes. If your child doesn’t already love reading, a librarian can help find something that sparks their interest. Daily reading is one of the best ways to prevent the dreaded summer brain drain.
All children should have age-appropriate chores. True self-esteem grows from mastering tasks, especially ones you don’t want to do. (Cleaning the bathroom, for example.)
More free time often means more snacking. Unfortunately, it’s usually the junky kind.
In Summary:
What kids DO need this summer:
What they DO NOT need:
Yay, you made it to the end, thank you! If you have any questions or would like more resources, don’t hesitate to reach out. SouthCoast Health Pediatrics hopes this helps your family make the most of summer. If you do run into any health issues this summer, click here to schedule an appointment or call your pediatrician’s office.
Whether you are looking for a primary care doctor or a pediatrician, or another medical specialist, SouthCoast Health has you covered with its wide range of world-class healthcare services, available throughout the Coastal Empire and Lowcountry. SouthCoast Health has 120 physicians and medical professionals in 18 locations in Savannah, Richmond Hill, Pooler, Rincon, Baxley, Hilton Head, Hinesville, and Statesboro. SouthCoast Health offers comprehensive medical services including: Family Medicine, Internal Medicine, Pediatrics, Allergy and Asthma, Cardiology, Endocrinology, Eye Care, Imaging, Infectious Diseases, Nephrology, Neurology, Physical Therapy, Podiatry, Surgery, Clinical Trial Research Studies, Diabetic Self-Management Training Sessions, Dietetic Counseling, Laboratory Services, Massage Therapy, Optical Shop, Pharmacy, and Urgent Care.
SouthCoast Health has 120 physicians and medical professionals in 18 locations in Savannah, Richmond Hill, Pooler, Rincon, Baxley, Hinesville, and Statesboro.
