Girls studying Torah during summer break

Question:

As you know, our children are out on summer break and I find it very difficult that my daughters who are in high school are going through such a long period of time without any Torah study and Torah interaction. They go on trips and have fun, sleep in late and until they daven and start their day it’s already midafternoon. So, I mentioned to them that I would like for them to come with me to Torah classes and they wouldn’t hear of it. Instead I offered them to learn with each other or with friends and have a set Torah learning Seder each day, however, I received pushback from them saying that they are on vacation and that the obligation of constant Torah study is for boys while girls may take time off in the summer. I was wondering if there is anything that the Rebbe ever said on this issue that I can share with them.

Answer:

Indeed, the Rebbe stressed that high school girls must include daily Torah study during their summer break. The Rebbe suggested that they learn Chavrusa.

Explanation:

During the summer months, the structured routines of the school year fall away, often leaving a void that can easily be filled by less meaningful or even spiritually numbing pursuits. With increased free time and fewer obligations, many teens may drift toward endless hours on their phones, scrolling through social media, watching movies, or engaging in activities that, while entertaining, do little to nourish their inner world. These patterns, if unchecked, can subtly dull their spiritual sensitivity and make it more difficult to re-engage with Torah study and purposeful living when the school year resumes.

It is precisely because of this risk that the Rebbe emphasized the importance of utilizing even a portion of the summer break for dedicated Torah study—not as a rigid continuation of the school year, but as an opportunity to maintain and deepen one’s spiritual life in a relaxed, uplifting environment. Regular study, especially with a Chavrusa (study partner), transforms Torah learning into a shared and interactive endeavor, making it more engaging and meaningful. This daily investment, even if brief, serves as an anchor, preserving spiritual growth and keeping the mind and soul attuned to higher values.

Moreover, integrating Torah study into the summer routine empowers teens with a sense of purpose and continuity. It reminds them that spiritual development is not confined to the classroom, but is a lifelong pursuit, relevant in all seasons. The friendships and bonds formed during these study sessions can become sources of encouragement and inspiration, further strengthening their commitment. In this way, the summer becomes not a spiritual wasteland, but a fertile ground for growth, balance, and joy—a time when Torah can shine with a special light, illuminating the heart and mind, and enriching the vacation experience as a whole.

Sources: See Toras Menachem Volume 6 pp. 3-4 “And from this it is understood that the summer period is merely a pause intended for rest and renewal of strength in preparation for the upcoming school year, during which you will continue your studies at the Beit Rivka High School with even greater dedication. Moreover, even during the summer itself, there should certainly not be a break or, Heaven forbid, a disconnect from Torah study—for the Torah is a Torah of life, and in matters of life, there is no such thing as a break, Heaven forbid. Surely, even during vacation time, you will set aside time each day outside the walls of Beit Rivka for Torah study. And how good it would be if this learning is done together with a friend. May the Almighty bless you with a healthy summer and success both in your rest and in your efforts, and may your parents derive much Jewish nachas (joy and pride) from you.”

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