As summer begins to wind down, many families—parents and children alike—experience the emotional dip that follows an extended period away from school and work. Even if you've come to anticipate these “post-vacation blues,” the transition back to normal routines can catch you off guard.
According to Jessica Glass Kendorski, PhD, NCSP, BCBA-D, chair of the Department of School Psychology at Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine (PCOM), the post-getaway slump is normal and while not yet a clinical diagnosis, it is a very real feeling.
“Post-vacation blues are not just about missing sunshine or travel, they are very real, emotional reactions to transitions and disruptions to one's routine and the human desire to cling to fun when normalcy may feel daunting or overwhelming,” Dr. Kendorski shares.
So how can families navigate this emotional whiplash? Dr. Kendorski says preparation and recognizing the feelings in real-time can help. “One of the most important tools for navigating these seasonal blues is open communication. Understanding the emotional root of the feelings and responding to them with empathy and structure is key.”
Preparing children for these feelings ahead of time will often soften the blow when returning to normal life. If taking an extended or longer trip, consider easing back into some of the simpler routines such as meals and bedtimes before returning home, especially if your child is sensitive to such changes. If possible, leave yourselves a day in between returning from vacation and resuming activities to leave children more time to acclimate.
For short getaways, unexpected cancellations, or even last-minute travel plans, the best strategy is to stay mentally present. Providing situational awareness by checking in with each other and talking about what's next can keep families grounded while still preserving the joy of spontaneity.
“One of the most important tools for navigating these seasonal blues is open communication.”
Dr. Jessica Glass Kendorski
Because children often do not yet have the vocabulary to explain why they feel “off” when returning from a fun adventure or extended time away from home, parents need to help create space for these emotions by doing the following:
It is equally important for parents to acknowledge their own feelings about these transitions and talk about them candidly with their kids. It's helpful for children to see that adults can also experience post-vacation lows and that there are healthy ways to cope with it.
Learn more about the PCOM School of Professional and Applied Psychology and its graduate and doctoral degree programs such as the Master's in Applied Behavior Analysis degrees or Doctor of Psychology in School Psychology programs.
Established in 1899, Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine (PCOM) has trained thousands of highly competent, caring physicians, health practitioners and behavioral scientists who practice a “whole person” approach to care—treating people, not just symptoms. PCOM, a private, not-for-profit accredited institution of higher education, operates three campuses (PCOM, PCOM Georgia and PCOM South Georgia) and offers doctoral degrees in clinical psychology, educational psychology, osteopathic medicine, pharmacy, physical therapy, and school psychology. The college also offers graduate degrees in applied behavior analysis, applied positive psychology, biomedical sciences, forensic medicine, medical laboratory science, mental health counseling, physician assistant studies, and school psychology. PCOM students learn the importance of health promotion, research, education and service to the community. Through its community-based Healthcare Centers, PCOM provides care to medically underserved populations. For more information, visit pcom.edu or call 215-871-6100.
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