Summer break can be a time of fun and freedom, but if your child has OCD, the lack of routine may bring challenges. Without the daily structure of school, you might notice that your kid is having a harder time managing their symptoms, or that certain OCD-driven habits are starting to creep back in. That’s completely normal, and it’s good to be paying attention. Kids with OCD often make the most progress when their families stay supportive, involved, and encouraging— through the ups and downs.
We spoke with Dr. Patrick McGrath, Chief Clinical Officer at NOCD, to get his best tips for supporting kids (ages 5–12) through summer break, so your child can have the best summer possible.
Read on for 5 simple, therapist-backed strategies:
1. Create your own structure to help your kid feel secure
Many kids with OCD thrive when their day follows a structure that they’re used to. “If your child has found a rhythm during the school year and it’s working, try to keep as much of that in place during the summer as you possibly can,” says Dr. McGrath. It’s important to find a balance here, since an overly rigid routine can fuel OCD symptoms. Consider maintaining consistent wake-up times, bedtimes, and meal times as a way to help your kid feel grounded. This can also make it easier to transition back to school when summer ends.
2. Gently encourage new experiences
Summer can be a great opportunity to encourage your child to take small steps outside their comfort zone. “Have your kids try a new camp, or something that will stretch them a little bit,” says Dr. McGrath. New activities like day camps, sports, or even family trips can help kids practice facing fears—just like they do in therapy. If you’re not sure what’s right for your child, working with their therapist to plan activities can be helpful.
3. Be careful not to accommodate OCD at home
It might feel tempting to relax the rules over summer break, but Dr. McGrath reminds families that “OCD doesn’t take a vacation.” If your child has been working on reducing reassurance-seeking, is facing fears, or has been working toward breaking OCD-driven habits, it’s important to keep reinforcing those skills at home. That might mean resisting the urge to soothe any discomfort your child feels, so they can learn to tolerate these negative emotions on their own.
While it can be tempting to offer extra reassurance, aid avoidance, or bend household rules to accommodate your child’s obsessions or compulsions, these behaviors can hamper progress. Instead, show your kid it’s just as important to practice ERP skills during summer break as it is year-round. You’ll bolster their resilience, and make it easier to jump back into daily life once school resumes.
4. Turn comparisons into opportunities for growth
If you notice your child comparing themselves to friends—and feeling discouraged that they’re not able to do all the same activities—use it as an opportunity to talk openly about their goals for therapy. Dr. McGrath suggests engaging them by asking: “‘What do you see other kids doing that you’d like to be able to do?’ Then bring that into therapy.” These moments can help kids stay motivated to keep working toward their goals.
5. Let kids be kids
For many children with OCD, life can start to feel like it’s all about managing fears and rituals. This summer, try to carve out time for simple, joyful experiences—without turning everything into a therapy goal. As Dr. McGrath says, encourage your child to “spread their wings a little bit,” whether that means visiting family, learning a new game, taking a trip, or just playing outside. Fun, curiosity, and exploration are essential parts of childhood, and giving your child space to simply enjoy life can be an important part of their healing, too.
Bottom line
Managing OCD during the summer doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. With the right support and strategies, your child can keep making progress—and enjoy all the fun and freedom the season has to offer. If you’re looking for extra support, NOCD offers specialized OCD therapy that’s designed for kids and families. Our licensed therapists can help your child continue building skills, confidence, and independence. You can get started by booking a free call with our team today.