School is Almost Out!
Summer break is just around the corner! While kids and teens count down the days until freedom, parents might count up the hours they need to fill. As temperatures rise along with excitement levels, here are three tips to help your family stay cool, connected, and content during the summer months. Below are some tips to keeping cool and keeping your cool this summer!
Create a Flexible Schedule
The word “routine” might sound like the opposite of summer fun, but a loose structure can be your family’s best friend! Consider:
Setting reasonable wake-up times (no need for 6 AM alarms, but no noon either!)
Scheduling weekly activities like “Monday movie night” or “Thursday park picnics.”
Building in downtime where kids can truly decompress from the school year.
A flexible routine gives everyone enough structure to prevent the dreaded “I’m bored” while still maintaining that carefree summer vibe.
Beat the Heat Strategically
When temperatures soar, tempers can too. Stay cool with:
Morning adventures before the peak heat (nature walks, bike rides, errands).
Indoor activities during the hottest part of the day (crafts, board games, reading).
Evening outdoor fun when temperatures drop again (stargazing, backyard games).
Don’t forget to stock up on popsicles, keep water bottles handy, and locate your nearest public pools and splash pads for those days when only water will do!
Balance Technology with Real World Experience
Summer screen time battles can be exhausting. Instead of constant negotiation:
Create tech zones and tech-free zones in your home
Plan special outings that naturally discourage screens (hiking, swimming, hands-on museums)
Involve kids in setting reasonable tech guidelines they help enforce
Remember that some screen time can be valuable too—online courses, creative digital projects, or video calls with far-away friends and family all have their place.
Have Fun and Stay Playful!
The most memorable summers are not about expensive adventures or busy schedules. They’re about the comfort of knowing that even when school’s out, family is always in. Here’s to keeping your cool all summer long!
