How to Plan a Smooth and Relaxing Summer with Your Family
Summer is just around the corner, and we're excited about our son finishing up school. He's so ready for swim team and sports camp! Even though my husband and I still have to work, we enjoy the longer days, time outdoors, and being swim-team parents. Summer schedules may be less structured, but it's a transition that takes some planning and organization. Here are some tips to get your family ready to slide into summer for whatever you have planned.
Start talking to your family about the change in schedule
Now’s the time to start talking about the upcoming transition from school to summertime. Kids can struggle during seasonal changes in routine, and this is a big one. Start talking to them about the summer plans and get their input where possible so that they feel involved. This will help them be better prepared and accepting when the transition comes.
Schedule your family's summer activities
The key to a successful summer is planning ahead, so discuss planned summer activities with your family. Talk through logistics and how changes to your summer schedule will impact things like transportation and day care. Put planned events on the family calendar (preferably a mobile app like Cozi) and list the person who will transport the kids. It also helps to include things like the address of the activity to reduce the amount of last-minute communication with your partner or babysitter.
Determine the daily summer routine
If your kids have unstructured time this summer, talk through how to spend it. Set expectations about summer homework, chores, jobs, etc. Discuss the daily summer routine for your family members and encourage them to spend time playing outside, reading, or engaging in other non-screen activities. Write out the daily schedule and post it where everyone can see it. This will help ensure that everyone stays active and healthy during the summer.
Organize travel plans
If you're planning on traveling this summer, it's important to book your flights, hotels, and rental cars in advance. This not only can help you save money, but it also gives you peace of mind knowing that everything is taken care of. Put all your travel documents in one location so you have them ready when it's time to hit the road. This will help you make the most of your time and create unforgettable memories with your family.
Image by Mi Pham, sourced from Unsplash
Stock up on summer essentials and gear
Before the summer months arrive, it's a good idea to stock up on essentials like sunscreen, insect repellent, first aid items, hats, and sunglasses. And no matter what you're doing outside, make sure your family's equipment is in good condition. Remember the fun essentials for the kids like water balloons, water guns, slip n slides, etc., to keep the kids entertained. Your kids and the ones in the neighborhood will appreciate it!
Plan meals and snacks
With so many fun activities to do during the summer, it's easy to forget about meal planning. However, planning ahead can save you time and money in the long run. Create a list of easy-to-make meals and snacks that your family can enjoy during the summer months. This can include things like pasta salads, barbeque, sandwiches, and smoothies. Also stock up on popsicles for those hot summer days, and pack snacks like trail mix and granola bars for hikes or camping.
Create your bucket list
Talk with the whole family about your bucket list for this summer, like trips to the ice cream shop, museum tours, weekend trips, and camping. Keep a running list that you can post in a common area, and check off activities as you do them so you can be sure to get in all the fun you can!
Talking to your family about your upcoming schedule, planning ahead, and stocking up on supplies will help you and your family smoothly transition to a relaxing summer. By preparing ahead of time, you can maximize your fun in the sun and craft unforgettable memories with your family!
For more detailed insights and a comprehensive planning approach, consider exploring the book "Project Management for Parents" written by Hilary Kinney, PMP. In Chapter 11, titled "Bringing It All Together: Top Tips and Real-Life Examples," you'll find valuable tools and strategies specifically tailored for planning summertime. Published by Morgan James, this timeless primer is widely available in over 150 libraries, major bookstores, and online retailers worldwide. Enjoy!
