Why Summer Feels Hard on Friendships (And How to Support Your Tween or Teen)

Summer is supposed to feel carefree, but for many tweens and teens, it can stir up unexpected friendship worries.

Without the daily rhythm of school, it’s easy for friendships to feel off balance:

• Texts go unanswered.

• Group chats slow down.

• Friends are away on vacation, at camp, or spending time with other people.

• The usual lunch table or hallway meetups disappear.

For some girls, this triggers worry: “Did I do something wrong? Are my friends mad? Am I being replaced?”

 Why does this feel so intense?
Because routines anchor relationships. When those routines pause, kids sometimes feel unsteady. The absence of regular connection can feel like rejection — even when it isn’t.

 How you can support her:

 Normalize the shifts
Let her know that many friendships ebb and flow during summer. It’s not a sign that the friendship is broken — it’s just a different season.

 Help her reach out confidently
Encourage simple invitations without overthinking:
"Hey, want to grab ice cream this week?"
"Let me know if you’re free to hang out one day!"
Remind her that it's okay to initiate — and it's okay if people are busy.

 Watch the comparison trap
Scrolling through Snapchat or Instagram can make everyone else’s summer look perfect. Gently remind her that social media shows highlights, not the full picture.

 Reassure her about her worth
A quiet week or a missed invite doesn't define her value. Friendships that are meant to grow will find their rhythm again.

 If you are looking for extra support for your daughter:

Here’s what’s happening this summer:

 The Brave Girl Tribe (Grades 5–8)
A safe, supportive space where tween girls connect weekly, build confidence, and learn to handle friendship drama and big emotions. We meet every Sunday at 7:00 pm EST/6:00 pm CST/ 4:00 pm PST
 Want to check it out? Your daughter is invited to join us as a guest 

 High School Support Group
Created for high school girls who need a place to process pressure, anxiety, and changing friendships—with honest conversations, zero judgment, and lots of support.
 High schoolers are also welcome to join  as a guest

 Survive and Thrive in Middle School
Is our self-paced course designed to help girls (and their parents!) get ready for middle school with confidence, clarity, and real tools to handle the changes ahead.

 Beyond the Drama: Supporting Your Daughter Through Friendship Challenges
This course helps parents in supporting their daughter's through their friendship challenges. Learn how to identify relational aggression, help your daughter find her voice, and strategies to navigate tough social dynamics—all while strengthening self-respect and emotional resilience.

Summer is full of growth — even when friendships feel uncertain.

Warmly,

Laura Hayes
Founder of The Brave Girl Project
Life Coach for Tween & Teen Girls
www.TheBraveGirlProject.com

[email protected]