As the school year winds down, the question looms large: What are you planning for your kids this summer? Last year, I found myself wondering how to keep my kids entertained while also juggling the responsibilities of being their full-time summer guide, camp organizer, and enrichment activity planner. I envisioned a summer packed with neighborhood water parties, yoga sessions, and discussions about climate change—all while whipping up gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches with organic ingredients.
But let’s be real: by June, I was exhausted from the relentless pace of the school year. The idea of orchestrating another action-packed summer felt overwhelming. So this year, I decided to take a different approach. Instead of succumbing to the pressure of curating an extravagant schedule filled with enrichment activities, I’m embracing the simplicity of a 1970s summer.
Why? Because summer should be about carefree fun, not another race against the clock. So, here are ten tips to help your kids experience the magic of a 1970s summer:
- Roller Skating Marathons: Spend an entire day at the roller rink. Grab a Shasta and some Fruit Stripe gum, and just skate. I promise you, a playlist of disco hits can keep you moving for hours.
- Bike Rides to Nature: Instead of heading to a commercial pool, hop on your bike and ride to a nearby creek. There’s no need for health checks or fancy snacks—just catch tadpoles and enjoy the great outdoors.
- Play with Real Toys: Dust off the hula hoops, frisbees, and pogo sticks. These toys don’t need batteries or a charger. Just let your kids play freely without the need for constant documentation.
- Return at Dusk: When the street lights come on, that’s your cue to head home. No GPS tracking or text reminders—just let them enjoy the freedom of knowing when to return.
- Get Messy: I expect my kids to come home dirty. If they’re not covered in dirt, did they even have a good day? Embrace the mess and the adventure that comes with it.
- Cook from Scratch: Dust off that classic Betty Crocker Junior Cookbook. Let your kids whip up meals using simple ingredients and a little creativity, rather than relying on cooking shows or takeout.
- Unplug on Road Trips: Leave the tablets at home and embrace the joy of the license plate game. And don’t forget to enjoy a good paperback book—there’s something special about flipping through the pages.
- Rainy Day Showers: Bath time can be a fun outdoor rain shower. Let the kids play under the downspout with some shampoo and soap—who needs a regular bath?
- Lemonade Stands: Help your kids set up a classic lemonade stand with no-frills. Just some cans of powdered lemonade and a poster board—no help from social media or fancy marketing.
- Do Nothing: Finally, encourage your kids to have no plans. Enjoy lazy days without any schedules or lists. Just let them be kids, soaking in the essence of summer.
Embrace this laid-back, retro approach to summer. After all, the responsibilities of adulthood will come knocking before you know it.
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Summary
This summer, take a step back from the high-pressure schedules and embrace the simplicity and freedom of a 1970s summer. Encourage your kids to explore, play, and simply enjoy being kids. It’s time to put away the iPads and dive into the dirt, laughter, and fun of the season.
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