Summer is often viewed as a break from school and a chance to relax. But as the leader of a pediatric health system, I see summer as a stress test for the systems that support children’s health. When the structure of the school year falls away, we gain a clearer view of the factors that shape a child’s well-being: access to nutritious food, safe places to play, nurturing adults, learning opportunities, and stable family support. These conditions matter because medical care is only one component of health. Research consistently shows that the vast majority of health outcomes—around 85%—are shaped by the circumstances of daily life. Over the summer, dependable school breakfast and lunch give way to whatever a family can piece together. Built-in recess and physical education give way to unstructured hours, often leaving children to look for community spaces to play. The network of trusted teachers, counselors, and coaches […]
