As the school year wraps up, the big question looms: What summer adventures await your kids? Just like last year, I found myself staring into the abyss of summer planning, feeling the pressure to transform into a full-time cruise director, camp organizer, and enrichment activity coordinator. Sure, I had visions of meticulously planned neighborhood water parties and playdates filled with yoga and Shakespeare readings. But let’s face it, summer shouldn’t feel like a choreographed performance!
By June, my family is running on fumes after a school year packed with early mornings and jam-packed schedules. The arrival of summer often feels like an obligation rather than a break. If your kids aren’t busy building orphanages in Africa or attending a dozen camps ranging from STEM to performing arts, the pressure mounts. It’s time we let out a collective sigh and say, “Enough!” Let’s return to the simplicity of summer fun, just like we had back in the 70s.
1. Hit the Roller Rink
Spend the day skating at your local rink. Grab a Shasta and a stick of Fruit Stripe gum for those much-needed breaks. Trust me, you can groove to nothing but Donna Summer for hours—it’s a blast!
2. Bike to the Creek
Want to cool off? Forget the fancy pools; ride your bike to the creek and dive in. Who needs a chlorine check, anyway? Catch tadpoles and lizards—nature’s toys are the best!
3. Play with Real Toys
Dust off the old hula hoop, frisbee, jump rope, and pogo stick. No need for batteries or screens. Just let them play without an audience. They’ll thank you later.
4. Streetlight Curfew
Come home only when the streetlights flicker on. No GPS tracking or incessant texts from me. Just keep an eye on those lights, kiddos. ON means it’s time to head home.
5. Get Messy
Embrace the dirt! Expect your kids to return home covered in grime after a day of play. That’s how you know they had a good time. And if they’ve got a ring of dirt around their neck, that’s a badge of honor!
6. Dinner with Betty
Dust off the Betty Crocker Junior Cookbook. Cooking should be a fun adventure, not a competition. I can’t wait for the chicken tetrazzini you’ll whip up!
7. Road Trip Fun
Leave the tablets at home. It’s time for the classic license plate game! And don’t forget about paperbacks—there’s nothing like the smell of a new book to spark joy.
8. Rainy Day Showers
Outdoor bath time during summer showers is a must. Just stand under the gutter and lather up. It’s the perfect excuse to get clean and have fun!
9. Lemonade Stand Fun
Set up your own lemonade stand! I’m not building it for you, but I’ll take you to pick up supplies. Just remember, if someone asks for a business permit, send them my way!
10. Do Nothing
Finally, the best summer plan is no plan at all. Embrace the freedom of having no schedule or agenda. Let the days unfold naturally. You’ll thank yourself when adulthood starts creeping in!
Why not take a trip down memory lane and let your kids experience the carefree summers we once enjoyed? Being an adult can wait!
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Summary:
This article encourages parents to embrace the simplicity and joy of a 1970s-style summer for their kids. By stepping away from meticulously planned activities and embracing unstructured play, children can enjoy a more fulfilling and authentic summer experience.