JFS Tributes- April 2026
JFS Acknowledgements- April 2026
The Charlotte Jewish News- June- July 2026- Page 24
The Hidden Trade-Offs of Summer Break
By Howard Olshansky
Welcome to summer! It is often envisioned as a carefree, joyful period for young people. Namely, a season for rest, play, and freedom from academic pressures. However, research increasingly shows the impact on mental health is more complex. The absence of school structure, combined with varying levels of access to enriching programs, of stress. Following a demanding school year, many children need a period of reduced pressure to recharge emotionally. Opportunities for free play, exploration, and family connection can strengthen resilience and overall well-being.
A key success factor is access to structured programming. Summer camps, enrichment programs, and community activities
tain a level of routine, such as consistent sleep and mealtimes. Second, encourage physical activity and limit excessive screen time, which will help to regulate mood and energy levels. Third, facilitate social interaction through camps, sports, or informal gatherings. Finally, if possible, ensure access to structured programs.
Summer break isn’ t inherent-
JFS Tributes- April 2026
Happy Birthday Eric Lerner Paul and Lynn Edelstein Edwin Newman Paul and Lynn Edelstein
In Honor of The Marriage of Josh & Anna Kipnis Gary Silverstein Eric and Lori Sklut Sanford and Lois Benjamin David and Risa Miller
In Memory of ZJ Gamlin Jeff and Emily Vaughan Joe Benton Hartis Gary Silverstein Dale Kaliser Alan and Madeline Aron
Ann Langman M. E. Hessberg Jeff and Emily Vaughan Sam Levy Sanford and Lois Benjamin
Evelyn London Sanford and Lois Benjamin Robert Nass Alan and Madeline Aron Arlene Schwartz Sanford and Lois Benjamin
Mazel Tov Michael Eisner on the 50th anniversary of his bar mitzvah Paul and Lynn Edelstein
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can either support or hinder a child’ s emotional well-being. Understanding both sides of this shift is critical for anyone wanting to promote healthy development.
Perhaps the most significant change is the loss of daily structure. During the school year, children benefit from predictable routines: consistent sleep schedules, social interaction, physical activity, and adult supervision. Schools also provide emotional support systems through faculty and peers. When summer begins, these often disappear. Research shows this disruption can lead to declines in healthy behaviors, including reduced physical activity, poorer sleep patterns, and increased screen time, all of which can contribute to emotional difficulties. Without regular social interaction, some children experience increased feelings of isolation, loneliness and anxiety.
At the same time, summer break also invites important mental health benefits. Unstructured time, when balanced appropriately, can foster creativity, independence, and the recovery
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provide a bridge between the rigid structure of school and the freedom of summer. In a supportive setting, they enable for routines to continue, increased social interaction, and countless opportunities for skill-building.
Family dynamics also play a critical role in shaping mindsets. Another important consideration is the adaptability in children’ s individual needs. Some children thrive in less structured environments, enjoying the freedom to explore their interests. Others, particularly those with attention difficulties or anxiety, may struggle without clear routines and expectations.
The concept of“ summer slide” is often discussed in academic terms. As routines break down, children may experience a loss of confidence or motivation, particularly if they feel disconnected from learning or peer engagement. Over time, this can affect self-esteem and emotional regulation.
To support children’ s mental health during summer break, several strategies emerge from our findings. First, try to main- ly beneficial or harmful for children’ s mental health. Its impact depends largely on how free time is organized. By intentionally creating supportive, balanced summer experiences, we ensure that summer becomes a season of positive mental health for everyone.
JFS Acknowledgements- April 2026
Volunteers: Brian Ablitz, Russ Ackerman, Jessica Alfandary, Marcia Arnholt, Mike Arnholt, Daniel Benjamin, Alexis Berman, Andrew Bernstein, Dan Coblenz, Jonathan Collman, Judy Conley, Andrea Cronson, Erica Davison, Julie Dermack, Joni Deutsch, Sheryl Effren, Rachel Friedman, Meredith Gartner, Marty Goldfarb, Blair Goldsmith, Richard Goldsmith, Joann Goldstein, Leon Golynsky, Daryl Greenberg, Gail Halverson, June Hirschmann, Rebecca Hockfield, Bob Jacobson, Jennifer Koss, Fred Kraus, Etti Krausse, Stephanie Kreitman, Glenn Kunkes, Marcia Lampert, Eric Lerner, Kim Levy, Adina Loewensteiner, Terry Meyers, Frada Mozenter, Barbara Rein, Nina Rose, Bayla Rosen Cindy Siesel, Stuart Singer, Louis Sinkoe, Lisa Somerson, Lauren Stark, Lorin Stiefel, Nancy Wielunski, Amanda Zaidman
Live Laugh Give Volunteers: Annie Brackis, Meredith Baumstein, Andrew Bernstein, Andrea Cronson, Rachel Friedman, Blair Goldsmith, Tamar Goldblatt, Kevine Levine, Rachel Peterson, Andrew Rosen, Karen Silver, Louis Sinkoe, Alyssa Wilen
Hadassah Meal Preppies: Joan Bullard, Audrey Herman, June and Paul Hirschmann, Johnson and Wales, Judy Kaufmann, Penny Krieger, Lena Rotmensz
Mitzvah Baskets: The Duller Family in honor of Issac Dullers Bar Mitzvah. Special thanks to Shai Fargian and Yafo Kitchen for providing Passover meals for clients.
Food Pantry Donations: To our generous community, thank you for continuing to donate to the food pantry. We continue to collect donations every other Wednesday at the portico entrance to the Blumenthal Center for Jewish Education Building on Shalom Park. Also please look for our donation box in the new security entrance in front of The Levine JCC.