How do free summer programs affect the pressures parents describe during the school holidays?

Details

Summer holiday programs offer a promising way to prevent the unhealthy changes in children’s health behaviors often experienced during the extended school break, but not all families can access them. This qualitative study explored parents’ summer holiday experiences and perceptions of receiving free summer programs to identify potential benefits, facilitators, and access challenges.

At the conclusion of summer 2024, researchers interviewed 24 parents—100% female and 63% Black—from families randomized to receive free summer programming or experience “summer as usual” as a control. Parents of high-attenders (N=8), low-/non-attenders (N=8), and controls (N=8) were recruited for semi-structured interviews. They were asked about their general summer experiences and the benefits and challenges of the free summer program. Interviews were audio recorded, transcribed, and coded. Researchers conducted thematic analysis and compared themes across attendance groups.

Parents described varied summer holiday experiences compared with the school year. Themes included family functioning, daily routines, and children’s health behaviors. Families with greater work flexibility and financial resources more often reported psychosocial benefits, including reduced stress and more family time. Families with fewer financial resources or less social support reported greater stress managing childcare demands and activity costs. Control-group parents particularly described the stress of juggling family roles while trying to provide healthy, enjoyable summer experiences.

Parents perceived summer programs as structured, active, socially engaging environments that supported children’s physical, social, and emotional wellbeing while meeting parents’ childcare needs. Cost remained a significant barrier. Families’ values, needs, and practical constraints shaped decisions about engagement. Free programs improved access and reduced financial distress. Features of program design, content, and delivery facilitated engagement.

The researchers concluded that families with stronger financial and social support were better able to offset the increased demands of the summer holidays. Summer programs functioned as a social safety net, offering opportunities for physical activity, social connection, and cognitive engagement while supporting family wellbeing. Ensuring equitable access to summer programs represents a practical, scalable opportunity to support children and families. Future research should explore sustainable funding models and fee structures that promote participation while remaining equitable.

Trial registration: NCT05880901.