Social Skills in the Summer: How to Help Kids Stay Connected

As the school year ends, many children look forward to summer—freedom from homework, more time to play, and a break from routine. But for others, summer can bring unexpected challenges, especially when it comes to social connection.

Without the built-in structure of school friendships and daily interactions, some kids experience loneliness, social anxiety, or even regression in social skills they worked hard to build during the year.

Whether your child is shy, adjusting to a new environment, or navigating life with ADHD or anxiety, there are ways you can support their social development all summer long.

👥 Why Summer Can Be a Social Struggle

School provides a daily opportunity for children to practice social skills—everything from sharing and cooperating to managing conflict and reading social cues.

Once school ends, some common challenges can include:

• Fewer chances to see friends regularly

• Feeling left out of group activities or playdates

• Difficulty adjusting to new social environments (like camps or family trips)

• Anxiety about initiating or joining in with peers

• Losing progress made with social or emotional regulation

If your child is struggling to connect—or just spending a little too much time alone or on screens—you’re not alone.

🌞 How to Help Your Child Stay Connected This Summer

1. Create Low-Pressure Social Opportunities

Not every child thrives in large groups or high-energy camps. Look for ways to offer social connection that match your child’s comfort level:

• Invite one or two friends for a playdate or park meet-up

• Join a local library, art, or nature program

• Set up “friend time” with structure (board games, shared interests, co-op video games)

• Try volunteering together with other families

Small, regular connections go a long way in keeping kids engaged and socially confident.

2. Prep for Camps or New Activities

New environments can be intimidating. Help your child prepare by:

• Talking through what to expect (schedule, setting, types of kids)

• Practicing conversation starters or ways to introduce themselves

• Visiting the location ahead of time if possible

• Setting small goals: “Try saying hi to one new person today”

If your child is highly anxious, consider reaching out to the camp counselor or instructor to give them a heads-up and collaborate on strategies.

3. Practice Social Skills at Home

Family interactions are a great way to reinforce key social skills:

• Take turns during meals or games

• Role-play different scenarios (joining a group, handling conflict)

• Use media (TV shows, books) as teachable moments to discuss emotions and relationships

Therapists often use role-play and social stories for kids who need extra support in this area—feel free to do the same at home!

4. Model and Talk About Friendship

Let your child hear you talk about your own friendships—how you connect with others, navigate challenges, and maintain relationships over time. This helps normalize that friendship takes effort, and that it’s okay when things aren’t always easy.

You might say:

• “I was nervous to go to that new group, too, but I ended up meeting someone really kind.”

• “Sometimes I don’t know what to say either—but I just ask a question and see what happens.”

5. Support Emotional Regulation

Often, social challenges aren’t just about skills—they’re about emotions. Help your child identify and name what they’re feeling (nervous, lonely, frustrated) and teach simple regulation tools like:

• Deep breaths or movement before social activities

• Positive self-talk (“It’s okay to be nervous. I can still try.”)

• Planning for breaks during longer social events

💛 Final Thoughts

Summer is a time for play, rest, and connection—but it can also stir up uncertainty and isolation, especially for kids who are socially sensitive or still developing confidence.

You don’t have to over-schedule your child or push them into overwhelming situations. Just focus on creating opportunities, practicing skills, and offering consistent support. That alone helps your child stay connected—to others, and to themselves.

If your child is struggling socially, feeling left out, or showing signs of anxiety this summer, therapy can help. At Sunshine Horizons Marriage and Family Therapy, PLLC, we specialize in supporting children and families in building emotional regulation, confidence, and connection.