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Summer can be a challenging time for parents of gifted and anxious children. Without the structure of school, these kids may feel overwhelmed or bored. Here are some practical tips to help keep them occupied and happy during the summer months.
1. Create a Flexible Routine
Gifted children often thrive on structure. Establish a daily routine that includes time for learning, creative activities, physical exercise, and relaxation. This can help reduce anxiety by providing a sense of predictability.
2. Encourage Pursuit of Interests
Gifted kids usually have strong interests. Whether it’s science, art, music, or reading, encourage them to dive deeper into their passions. Enroll them in summer camps or online courses that align with their interests. This not only keeps them engaged but also helps them develop their talents.
3. Incorporate Physical Activities
Physical exercise is crucial for managing anxiety. Plan regular outdoor activities like hiking, biking, or swimming. You can also try yoga or mindfulness exercises to help them relax and stay grounded.
4. Foster Social Connections
Social interactions are important for emotional well-being. Arrange playdates with friends or join local clubs and groups where they can meet peers with similar interests. This can help them build friendships and reduce feelings of isolation.
5. Provide Creative Outlets
Gifted children often have vivid imaginations. Provide them with materials for creative projects like drawing, painting, writing, or building. Encourage them to start a summer project, such as writing a short story or creating a piece of art, to keep their minds engaged.
6. Balance Screen Time
While educational apps and online resources can be beneficial, it’s important to balance screen time with other activities. Set limits on screen use and encourage them to spend time on offline hobbies and outdoor play.
7. Practice Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques
Teach your child mindfulness and relaxation techniques to help manage anxiety. Simple practices like deep breathing, meditation, or guided imagery can be very effective. Consider using resources from our Anxiety Treatment page for more tips.
8. Seek Professional Support
If your child’s anxiety becomes overwhelming, don’t hesitate to seek professional help. Our team at Davenport Psychology offers specialized services for gifted and anxious children. We provide individual therapy, parent coaching, and more to support your child’s mental health.
Local Resources in Sarasota, Venice, and Tampa
- Aspiring Heights Academy: A non-traditional, non-public school offering programs for gifted children. Located in Englewood, FL. Learn more
- Early Learning Coalition of Sarasota County: Provides resources and support for early education. Located in Sarasota, FL. Learn more
- Davenport Psychology: Our own practice offers a range of services for gifted and anxious children, including individual therapy and parent coaching. Located in Sarasota, FL. Learn more
Online Resources
- National Association for Gifted Children (NAGC): Offers resources for parents, including articles and advocacy tools. Visit NAGC
- Davidson Institute: Provides resources and support for gifted children, including articles on managing anxiety. Visit Davidson Institute
- SENG (Supporting Emotional Needs of the Gifted): Offers resources and support for the emotional needs of gifted children. Visit SENG
- Connecting for Kids: Lists websites, online groups, and apps for gifted or twice-exceptional children. Visit Connecting for Kids
By incorporating these strategies and utilizing local and online resources, you can help your gifted and anxious child have a fulfilling and enjoyable summer. Remember, every child is unique, so it’s important to tailor these suggestions to fit your child’s specific needs and preferences.
For more information on our services, visit our Child and Adolescent Therapy page.
References
- American Psychological Association. (2021). Anxiety in Children. Retrieved from https://www.apa.org/topics/anxiety/children
- National Association for Gifted Children. (2022). Supporting Gifted Children. Retrieved from Family Tip Sheet
- Mayo Clinic. (2023). Mindfulness Exercises. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/mindfulness-exercises/about/pac-20385163
Feel free to reach out to us at for any further assistance or to schedule an appointment. We’re here to help your child thrive!
