The Duality of Parenting in the Summer: From “Lazy Days” to “Family-Fueled Adventures”
Alexandria, VA – Welcome to our new regular series in the Zebra – all about families.
Ah, the “lazy days of summer.” Remember those? Long, languid afternoons spent lounging by the pool, sipping a Diet Coke (or, if you really throwback, a TAB), and getting lost in a good book.
Fast forward to parenthood, and suddenly, summer becomes a whirlwind of activities, sweaty afternoons, playdates, and the never-ending quest to keep people entertained. Where did those lazy days go?
The duality of family life in the summer is real, and it can be exhausting. But fear not! With a few clever strategies, you can create pockets of relaxation amidst the chaos, making those family-fueled adventures feel more like the lazy days you once cherished.
Keep a Summer Routine
While it might seem counterintuitive, a routine can bring calm to your summer days. Block out time for activities, rest, and free play. Knowing what to expect helps children feel secure and can prevent the constant barrage of “What are we doing next?” Plus, having designated rest periods can give you those precious lazy moments. School will start soon enough, and having a routine will make the transition back to more rigid days a lot easier.
Outdoor Play = Natural Energy Burner
One of the best ways to balance the energy levels in your household is by embracing outdoor play. Parks, splash pads, and nature walks are fantastic ways for kids to burn off energy while you soak up some sun. Have you been to the splash pad at Potomac Yard? Or set up a sprinkler in your yard! Bring towels, a good book, or a podcast, and let the kids roam. This way, they get their adventure fix and you get a slice of relaxation.
Mindful Moments
In the hustle and bustle of summer, it’s easy to forget to be present. Lots of core memories are made for families in the summer months! Practice mindfulness by taking a few deep breaths and simply watching your kids play. These small moments of awareness can make even the busiest days feel more relaxed. And don’t forget to snap a few pictures to look back on when the weather turns gray because we’re going to miss this, despite the 100-degree heat.
Simplify Activities
Not every day needs to be a grand adventure. Embrace the simple joys of summer – a trip to the library, homemade popsicles, or an afternoon playtime with pets or the neighbor’s dog. These low-key activities can be as memorable and significantly less stressful than planning elaborate outings.
Embrace Imperfection
Finally, let go of the need for perfection. Some days will be chaotic, and that’s okay. Embrace the messiness and unpredictability of summer. It’s in these imperfect moments that memories are made.
So, while the “lazy days of summer” might look a little different now, with a bit of planning and a lot of flexibility, you can find the balance between family-fueled adventures and those blissful, lazy moments you crave. After all, summer is all about making memories – for both you and your kids. Crack open a Diet Coke, and Cheers to August!
Your parent’s heart is full of wisdom—Be WISE!
Got questions? Need support? Connect with our practice on social @wisefamilies and with me @heydoctoramy! Let’s make your family life as awesome as it can be!
Dr. Amy Fortney Parks has over 30 years of experience as an educator, psychologist, and clinical supervisor. She holds a PhD in Educational Psychology, specializing in child and adolescent developmental neuroscience. Dr. Parks founded WISE Family Wellness and the Clinical Supervision Directory. She is a clinical supervisor, adjunct professor, international speaker, podcast host of *Supervision Simplified*, and soon-to-be author. A native Alexandrian, she enjoys reading teen fiction, mixing Bloody Marys, and hanging with friends who have boats. Connect with her on social @heydoctorparks.
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