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Doctors say kids need some type of routine during summer months

Doctors said following a routine can keep kids' bodies and minds in shape. It can help kids feel in charge and reduce power struggles that come from summer boredom.

PORTLAND, Ore. — School is out for the summer and that means many kids aren't on their usual schedule. Local doctors told KGW it's important for kids to keep some type of routine while they're on summer break.

Many kids are excited to be out of school for summer break.

"I've been like playing games. I've been going on the hammock, and I've been playing in my room," said Phoenix Morris.

Parents also enjoy the summer because it allows families time to reconnect.

"They have to spend more time together and help each other and play games together, so yeah, it's been very special," said Elise Morris.

But with no school, many kids are no longer following a regular schedule. Parents who spoke to KGW said that's been one of the challenges.

"I will admit I have been letting bedtime slip, so this one is usually supposed to be in bed by 7, and it's been 7:30, 8," Morris said.

Doctors said Elise isn't the only parent to struggle with keeping kids on the same routine.

"School is out and so our normal routines are changed for the next couple of months. We all really thrive on schedules and routines, especially kids, so it's important to have some sort of schedule," said Dr. Tracy Muday, executive medical director for Regence BlueCross Blue Shield of Oregon.

Doctors said following a routine can keep kids' bodies and minds in shape. It can also help kids feel in charge and reduce power struggles that come from summer boredom.

"Plan some activities. If you don't have summer camps or other activities it's important to keep normal household routines like chores," Muday said.

Some more tips to help kids stay on track when school is out include:

  • Try to maintain healthy sleep, exercise and diet habits over the summer.
  • Give kids options to choose from when they can't think of something to do.
  • For older kids, help them make their own choices on how to spend their time, with parental limits.

With these tips in mind, doctors said kids should also be in better shape once summer break is over.

"Changes can be hard for all of us, so it can upset sleep, it can change our diets, so again, just intending to make sure that we have those healthy routines helps us all," Muday said.

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