Around this time of year, some parents start noticing small changes in their children.
- Bedtime becomes harder.
- Emotions can feel unpredictable.
- Friendships can feel a little more complicated.
- Energy is up and down.
And sometimes the explanation is seasonal.
Spring brings several changes that can affect children’s nervous system, which in turn affects how they function socially.
1. Sleep shifts
Oh, yes...Day Light Savings Time disrupts sleep patterns.
Even small sleep changes can affect attention, patience, and emotional regulation.
2. Warmer weather and hydration
Every spring, since I was a school social worker in the early 2000's, I've been trying to remind parents to remind their kids to drink plenty of water at school. As temperatures suddenly rise (like this week here in California!) kids are not used to drinking enough.
Even mild dehydration can affect mood, energy, and concentration.
3. Seasonal allergies
Allergies can affect sleep quality and daytime comfort. When a child’s body is working harder to deal with allergies, they may appear more irritable, tired, or distracted. On the flip side, I've also seen allergy meds also affecting the kids' behaviors.
Each change on its own may be small.
But together they can make a noticeable impact in our kids.
Why this matters for friendships
When a child’s body is tired, uncomfortable, or dysregulated, of course their social world often becomes harder.
These factors can speed up how fast their social battery drains, too.
Helpful ways to support your child
During times like this, small adjustments can make a big difference:
• Build in downtime before social time
Give your child time to rest and reset before playdates or group activities. This helps refuel their social battery.
• Stay a little more involved for younger kids
Some children may need more adult involvement during play.
• Keep hangouts shorter
Ending while things are still going well helps children leave with a positive feeling, instead of pushing until they are too tired or overwhelmed.
• Do a quick “body check” before social time
Are they tired, hungry, or irritated? A small reset, snack, water, or rest before can help.
• Set one simple expectation before the interaction
Set 1 'challenge of the day' they can focus on. Keep it clear and simple.
Here are past newsletters I've written about social battery: [HERE]
*On my [newsletter page], you can always search for keywords to pull up different articles I've written in the past.
NORIKO'S NOTES: sharing my life's simple joys💜
Sooo...my first baby turned 21 last weekend! SUPER strange to have a fully grown adult child. Everyone says don't blink because kids grow up fast but I feel like 'don't even squint because years after high school go by even faster'!
I'm so proud of him, the young man he has become and the special relationship we share.
[MORE PHOTOS HERE FROM INSTAGRAM]
Thank you for letting me share my simple joy💜.
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Noriko Abenojar, MSW PPS
Parenting REdefined
Social and Cognitive Learning Center
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