We’re all familiar with the concept of taking a mental health day as adults, but the idea of giving kids the same opportunity is less common. Yet, going to school for long hours every day can be as exhausting and stressful for children as working a full-time job is for adults.
Noel LaPalomento, a mother who has embraced this concept, recently shared how she allows her 6-year-old daughter, Giada, to take a day off from school each month. In a TikTok video, Giada is seen enjoying a fun day at the mall—an outing she looks forward to each month, “without being sick.”
LaPalomento explained to “Good Morning America” that she noticed a decline in her daughter’s energy and enthusiasm after switching to a private school. “Last year, she would come home from school and immediately fall asleep on the stairs, then sleep in the hallway. It was as if she was a zombie,” LaPalomento recounted. “I barely had time to spend with her before it was bedtime.”
One morning, feeling exhausted herself and reluctant to make the long drive to Giada’s school, LaPalomento suggested a day at the mall instead. Giada was overjoyed, and the video captures her savoring boba, playing arcade games, enjoying cotton candy, and, most importantly, smiling brightly.
The idea of a monthly day off has received widespread support from viewers, with many expressing their admiration and even envy. “A mental health day would have been so beneficial for me growing up. This is amazing!” commented mom blogger Elyse Myers. “This should be normalized! So happy to see this!” added another supporter.
However, not everyone agrees with LaPalomento’s approach. Some critics argue that weekends should provide enough relaxation and that Giada might miss out on essential education. Despite this, LaPalomento reported that Giada’s academic performance has remained strong and that the days off have actually enhanced her motivation. “It’s only 9 days out of the 181-day school year. If the student is performing well, I don’t see the issue,” she told the New York Post.
Educators and psychologists generally support the practice. A teacher on TikTok endorsed the idea, emphasizing the importance of mental health days for children. Psychologist Amy Morin, LCSW, noted that such breaks can help alleviate anxiety, while Dr. Kimberly Alexander of the Child Mind Institute described them as “very restorative when done strategically.”
The key to making this work is understanding why a child might need a day off and ensuring it’s used for rejuvenating activities rather than falling into unhealthy habits. Open communication is crucial—parents should regularly check in with their children and validate their feelings.
While not every parent might be able to offer a monthly day off, recognizing the value of allowing kids to express when they need a break can be a positive step. Imagine a world where adults are more attuned to the benefits of taking time to enjoy life—perhaps we’d all be a bit happier and healthier.