Breaks during the school year provide a great opportunity for Tar Heels to recharge and step away from their daily routines and recover and recharge from stress.
Rest and Reset
Recovery can look different for every student—some may benefit from social connection, while others may prefer rest, quiet time, creative activities, or time outdoors. Understanding that rest is an essential part of success, not a break from it, can help students approach this time with intention and balance.
Families can support students by recognizing that meaningful rest looks different for everyone and may not always match expectations of productivity or travel. To better understand your student’s experience, ask questions such as:
“What does a restful break look like for you?”
“How are you planning to recharge this week?”
“What activities help you feel restored?”
When students share their plans, acknowledge that recovery is personal and that there is no “right” way to spend a break. Reinforce that rest is an essential part of success that can help maintain balance with their academic careers. Encourage your student to prioritize activities that genuinely restore their energy, rather than what feels expected or productive.