Ten ways to help your family fly into summer

Don’t blink — summer is almost here. For kids, there’s usually no better news. It means less (or no) school, more free time with friends, and popsicles in the sun. 

For parents, the next three months might actually mean more stress and worry. There are more hungry people in the house all day, less help with kids, and a healthy dose of boredom. 

Whether you're feeling joy, looking forward to relaxing, or bracing for chaos, a little planning can go a long way. We’ve got the tools to help you enjoy a summer with your family that feels fun, calm, and connected.

Here are 10 simple ideas that can help your early bird family fly into summer:

1. Get ready before the last bell rings
   Before school ends, take some time to think ahead about the calendar and what might make summer more enjoyable. Involve your kids in the planning and brainstorming what sounds fun. A little planning now can make a big difference once summer starts.
   
   
   

2. Talk about what to expect
   Sit down as a family and talk about what’s coming. Will there be summer camp? Family trips? A new babysitter? Let kids know what to expect so they feel included and prepared.
   
   
   

3. Create a visual calendar
   Kids do better when they can see what’s coming. Hang a big calendar somewhere in your home and add any summer plans, birthdays, or special events. Even adding “pajama day” or “park picnic” gives kids something fun to look forward to.
   
   
   

4. Share new routines
   Summer doesn’t have to be super scheduled, but a loose routine helps everyone feel more steady. Let kids know what the days might look like: when breakfast is, which days they have camp, and when you’ll do fun stuff together. This gives them a sense of structure in a relaxed way.
   
   
   

5. Set healthy boundaries
   Letting the rules get a little fuzzy during summer is normal, but too much inconsistency  can leave kids feeling unsettled. While school is out, make sure you keep a few year-round expectations in place (like keeping rooms tidy, daily reading time, and helping with chores). 
   
   
   

6. Screen time limits
   When boredom hits, it’s easy for screens to be the first thing your child gravitates towards. Be clear about when (and how long) kids can use tablets, TVs, phones, or game systems. You might schedule daily screen time or allow it once “must-do” chores are finished.
   
   
   

7. Respect for quiet time
   Quiet time gives both kids and adults a break from noisy distractions and gives everyone time to breathe. Carve out some quiet time each day. Everyone can read, draw, work, or rest. Everyone needs a chance to settle down.
   
   
   

8. Set clear expectations for chores
   Just because it’s summer doesn’t mean the mess disappears. Give kids age-appropriate chores they can help with around the house. Post a simple 1-2-3 list they can follow, like make your bed, put dishes away, help with laundry. (And change it up every so often with a “no chores today!” surprise.)
   
   
   

9. Have an “I’m bored” plan
   Boredom is normal — and it’s okay! In fact, it can be the key to creativity. To help it along, keep an activity jar on hand. Fill the jar with prompts like “draw your dream pet,” “build a blanket fort,” or “make up a dance.” Drop new ideas in the jar each week for variety. When kids are bored, you can say, “Sounds like your brain is ready for something new — how about you check the activity jar?” 
   
   
   

10. Start a new tradition
    Choose one thing to do together each day. A few ideas: reading aloud before bed, a walk after dinner, sharing highs and lows from your day, or making breakfast together on the weekend.

The school year can feel so fast and full. Slow down a little. Say yes to spontaneous play, lazy mornings, or staying up late for s’mores once in a while. 

You don’t need a packed schedule or tons of big events to have a memorable summer. So take a breath, grab some sunscreen, and get ready for the feel-good months ahead.