Not too long ago, the pressure to organize my children’s summers felt like a personal burden. I was determined to fill every moment of their break with enriching experiences, most of which revolved around day camps that required planning and registration long before the warm weather arrived.
The commitment to overnight camps is even more intense. You have to secure a spot while the school year is still fresh, often with hefty deposits if you manage to snag a coveted place during those midnight registration rushes. I can’t help but admire the strategy behind it—transitioning from school to camp is a sweet reward. Two weeks of peace after a hectic May is a charming trade-off before kids take over the house.
However, this summer, I’m opting out of that convention. It’s not just about saving a heap of money or avoiding potential credit card debt—it’s about saying no to the rigid schedules of camps run by well-meaning organizations like the YMCA, which might as well be the Ritz-Carlton of summer activities.
Yes, two weeks at the YMCA could set you back nearly $2,589, and that’s before you factor in the costs of specialty bedding and overpriced branded gear. I’ve spent prior summers shuttling my kids to various camps, some requiring flights, only to have them decide they didn’t want to go back. Honestly, I could have used that money to drive around in a golf cart.
But we won’t be spending our summer lazily glued to screens. Instead, we’ll soak up the sun at the beach and perhaps use our newfound free time to keep journals or visit the library when we need a break from the ocean. We’ll explore charming nearby towns and local museums at our own pace.
While I’m not embracing a completely lazy summer, I’m curious to see if having no set plans will bring a sense of calm. We’ll enjoy the flexibility to cater to each family member’s needs as they arise. I’m looking forward to quality time with my four kids—exploring nature, meeting up with friends, swimming, and relaxing in tidal pools. Maybe a summer without strict plans is just what we need.
With 77 days off from school, our “no plans” approach could turn out to be a great idea. The money saved could allow for a mountain getaway or even a golf cart purchase, but we’ll see how the first week goes. After all, navigating the chaos that comes with two energetic boys, a spirited daughter, and a special needs toddler can be quite the challenge. Still, I’m ready to embrace the freedom I’ve overlooked in past summers. This could be the season of endless adventures, where the experiences blend together into one memorable summer.
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Summary:
This article explores the author’s decision to skip summer camps in favor of a more relaxed, flexible summer with their children. Emphasizing the value of unstructured time, the author reflects on the joys of exploring local attractions and spending quality time together, while also considering the financial benefits of avoiding expensive camp fees.