MCHD encourages parents to lean into connection, routine, and support this season 6-3-26

3 Jun 2026 News Release

June 3, 2026

MCHD encourages parents to lean into connection, routine, and support this season

MOBILE, Ala. — School’s out. The schedule is gone. And for many parents and caregivers, the question quickly becomes: now what?

Summer can be a gift — more family time, slower mornings, and room to breathe. But it can also bring real challenges: keeping adolescents active, emotionally grounded, and engaged without the structure that school provides. The Mobile County Health Department (MCHD) wants every parent and caregiver to know that you don’t have to figure it out alone.

ROUTINE IS A FORM OF LOVE

Adolescents thrive when they know what to expect. Even a simple daily rhythm — morning reading, outdoor time, a shared meal, chores, and a consistent bedtime — gives adolescents a sense of security that supports both their emotional and physical health.
This summer, MCHD encourages families to build intentional routines that include:

  • Daily reading — even 20 minutes can strengthen literacy and calms the mind
  • Outdoor and physical activity — movement reduces anxiety and improves focus
  • Family meals — regular mealtimes are one of the strongest predictors of adolescent well-being
  • Age-appropriate chores — responsibility builds confidence and connection
  • Consistent bedtimes — sleep is the foundation of healthy adolescent development

These are not lofty goals. They are daily choices — and every family can make them.

STRONG PARENTS RAISE STRONG ADOLESCENTS

Parenting is one of the most demanding roles anyone can take on — and one of the least supported. Positive communication, healthy boundaries, and meaningful one-on-one time does not always come naturally, especially when stress is high and adolescents are testing their independence. That’s why having practical, trusted guidance matters.

“Parents do not have to navigate summer challenges alone,” said Dr. Kevin Michaels, Health Officer for Mobile County. “Trusted resources can help families build routines, reduce stress, and create a healthy environment where adolescents can learn, grow, and feel connected.”

A FREE RESOURCE BUILT FOR FAMILIES LIKE YOURS

CredibleMind offers a library of evidence-informed parenting resources — available free to all Alabama residents — covering everything from building stronger relationships and setting healthy boundaries to supporting adolescents’ emotional health when things get hard.
Whether you’re navigating a younger adolescent’s big emotions or a teenager’s growing need for autonomy and identity, CredibleMind’s family mental health tools offer practical strategies that meet you where you are.

Explore parenting resources at alabama.crediblemind.com/topics/parenting.

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