Why Unstructured Time Is the Secret to Healthier, Happier Kids

As the school year winds down and the summer sun rises, many parents ask:

“How do I keep my kids on track without it becoming a battle?”

The surprising answer?

Don’t add more structure—create better rhythm.

THE PROBLEM: MODERN KIDS ARE OVERLOADED

1 in 5 children has a mental or behavioral disorder (CDC, 2023)

Over 7.3 million U.S. kids are on psychiatric medications (Medco, 2022).

Emotional dysregulation, anxiety, and attention challenges are on the rise.

Without healthy rhythms, kids struggle to regulate, focus, and grow.

THE SOLUTION: RHYTHM > ROUTINE

Unstructured time isn’t laziness—it’s neurodevelopmental fuel.

Free play activates brain networks for creativity and emotional processing.

Boredom boosts executive function and adaptability.

Calm, natural rhythms lower cortisol and support long-term nervous system resilience.

Executive functions—like planning, organizing, problem-solving, and regulating emotions—are built through daily experiences that require flexibility and creativity. These aren’t just school skills; their life skills that kids need to thrive.

RHYTHM-RESET TIPS FOR PARENTS:

1. Anchor the Day. Same wake-up and bedtime = hormonal stability

2. Watch Their Flow. Let energy—not the clock—determine play or rest

3. Create Margin. Boredom = Brain Growth

4. Sabbath Weekly. One screen-free day resets the parasympathetic system

WHY CHIROPRACTIC MATTERS

Summer is a golden season for growth—but only if the nervous system is clear.

That’s where chiropractic care comes in. Adjustments balance the autonomic nervous system, reduce stress, and optimize regulation (Haavik & Murphy, 2012).

A clear nervous system helps kids adapt, process emotions, and build stronger executive functions.

The more connected the brain and body, the more effective their summer rhythm becomes.

PARENT REMINDER:

Your stress becomes their stress.

Slow down. Simplify. Model the rhythm you want them to follow.

Let summer be a season of healing and connection—for both of you.

Let’s Grow Together,

Dr. Josh