As summer approaches, many parents worry about the “summer melt”—that slow slide in motivation, structure, and connection that can leave teens feeling aimless and disengaged. But it doesn’t have to be a time of lost momentum. Summer can provide a powerful opportunity to build developmental assets and deepen your relationship with your teen.

Developmental assets are the building blocks of healthy development: things like positive identity, social competencies, and a sense of purpose. Summer is a great time to nurture these assets is by strengthening Developmental Relationships: strong, supportive connections where you express care, challenge growth, provide support, share power, and expand possibilities. The ROCK builds these opportunities into the summer camp activities offered.

Here are three simple, meaningful activities you and your teen can do together this summer to avoid the melt and build lasting connections:

Volunteering is a powerful way to help teens develop empathy, responsibility, and a connection to their local community. When you volunteer side-by-side, you model compassion and commitment while creating shared experiences that strengthen your bond.

Ideas to try:
• Serve meals at a local shelter
• Help out at an animal rescue
• Join a community clean-up day
• Work on a community build project together
• Organize a donation drive for a cause your teen cares about

Developmental Assets: Service to others, Caring, Responsibility, Sense of Purpose, Equality and Social Justice, Youth as Resources

Combine the calming power of nature with the uplifting practice of gratitude. Head to the Tridge, Dow Gardens, or even your neighborhood, and take a slow walk together. As you go, take turns pointing out things you’re grateful for—big or small.

Make it special:
• Bring a journal to jot down your reflections
• Take photos of things that spark joy or awe
• End with a picnic or a quiet moment to talk

Developmental Assets: Positive Family Communication, Safety, Creative Activities, Peaceful Conflict Resolution

Reading isn’t just for school. It can be a gateway to imagination, empathy, and meaningful conversation. Choose a book to read together or separately, then set aside time to talk about it over snacks or a walk.

Ways to make it fun:
• Let your teen pick the book (graphic novels, fantasy, memoirs—anything goes!)
• Start a mini family or neighborhood book club
• Visit the library together

Developmental Assets: Reading for Pleasure, Family Support, Caring Neighborhood

Summer doesn’t have to be a time of drift. With a little intention, it can be a season of growth, purpose, and connection. By engaging in activities that build Developmental Assets and deepens your relationship with your teen, you’re not just filling time—you’re investing in their future.