Supporting Kids Through Spring Burnout: A Parent’s Guide

Written By Jenn Birch

Spring Burnout: A Common Struggle for Families

As a therapist who has worked with kids and teens for over 5 years, I’ve observed when stress and burnout tend to flare up. I can often predict when my client families need extra support. As we approach the final stretch of the school year, it’s common for everyone to feel worn out. Parents juggle busy schedules, teachers feel the weight of the year, and kids—well, they’re over it. The excitement of fall is long gone, and by spring, the grind of school, homework, and extracurriculars can take its toll. For many kids and teens, this time of year brings burnout, frustration, and fatigue—sometimes leading to crises.

Yes, spring is beautiful, but it’s also a reminder of how tired we all are. Parents, teachers, and students have been working hard. It’s important to recognize and honor these feelings. So, what can parents do to support their kids during this tough time?

1. Validate and Explore Feelings

Kids may express frustration, boredom, or resistance to schoolwork as the year winds down. While we want to push through and finish strong, it’s important to meet your child where they are. Acknowledge their feelings and let them know it’s okay to be tired.

Example Phrases:

  • "I know you’re feeling really tired right now. It’s been a long year, and it’s totally okay to feel this way."

  • "It sounds like you’re ready for a break. You’ve worked hard this year, and it’s normal to feel worn out."

By validating their feelings, you help your child feel heard and understood. This can ease emotional pressure and make their feelings less intense.

2. Create Routines with Flexibility and Set Realistic Expectations

Kids thrive on routine, but during burnout, too much rigidity can add stress. Instead, create a predictable routine with room for flexibility and rest. Set clear expectations for tasks, but make it fun with breaks, new family traditions, games, or physical activity.

Ideas:

  • Structured downtime: Schedule time for relaxation or hobbies—reading, drawing, or playing outside. Have a quick dance party or snack outside together.

  • Alternating tasks: Break homework into smaller chunks with short breaks. The “15-minute work, 5-minute break” method is helpful in keeping things moving without overwhelming them.

Let your child know it’s okay to take things slow and focus on balance. Routines give them security, and flexibility reduces stress.

3. Offer Praise and Encourage Effort Over Perfection

As the school year nears its end, kids may feel discouraged by grades or assignments. Rather than focusing on perfection, help them value effort. Celebrate the small wins, like completing homework or staying engaged—even if it's not perfect.

Example Phrases:

  • "I’m really proud of how hard you’re working, even when it’s tough."

  • "It’s okay to make mistakes. What matters is that you’re giving it your best."

By focusing on effort and resilience, you help take the pressure off and ease their perfectionist tendencies.

Everyone Needs Rest and Support

Spring burnout is real. It’s essential to remember that everyone needs rest, support, and understanding during this time. A piece of advice I always share with parents is this: nothing you say or do is permanent. If you wish you’d handled a situation differently, it’s never too late to talk with your child about it. Apologize if needed, share what you wish you’d said, and model responsibility for mistakes. This supports your child and helps them learn problem-solving and relationship repair. We’re all tired—and that’s okay!

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Additional Services Available at Birch Therapy in North Carolina

At Birch Therapy in Raleigh, NC, we offer a comprehensive range of services for children, teens, and parents. Alongside child therapy, we provide:

At Birch Therapy, we are committed to providing a wide array of therapeutic services, specifically designed to support children, teens, and parents. We take a compassionate, individualized approach to help your family heal and grow together.

Get in touch today to see how we can assist your family in thriving!

Jenn Birch
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Countering Perfectionism, by Laura Goulian, LCSW