For many, summer conjures images of carefree days, beach trips, and backyard barbecues. But for working parents, the season often brings anything but relaxation.

School’s out, routines are disrupted, childcare is patchy at best, and the pressure to create “perfect summer memories” can feel relentless.

Behind the scenes, there’s a real neurological reason why summer can feel so overwhelming – and fortunately, there are also ways to ease the strain.

Why summer feels harder than it looks

When we think of stress, we usually imagine work deadlines, financial worries, or late-night emails. But the brain doesn’t just respond to high-stakes events – it responds to change. And summer is full of it.

1. The brain’s need for predictability

Our brains crave predictability. The prefrontal cortex – the part responsible for planning, problem-solving, and emotional regulation – relies on routines to stay efficient.

When school ends and schedules get thrown out the window, the brain has to work overtime to fill in the blanks. This increase in cognitive load is exhausting.

2. Decision fatigue

During the school year, many decisions are automated: lunch box contents, pick-up times, bedtimes. But in summer, every day brings a new set of questions:

“Who’s watching the kids?”

“Do we sign up for camp?”

“What’s the plan for today?”

This surge........

© HuffPost