Summer has officially arrived! We’re geared up with our sandals, ready for exciting road trips, and eager to make the most of the sunny season. However, as we all know, the pressure to cram every fun activity into the summer can be overwhelming, especially with back-to-school ads popping up right after Independence Day. In the past, I’ve succumbed to the “must-do-it-all” mindset, but this year, I’m opting for something different. I want the carefree, laid-back summers of my childhood, and I’ve realized that sometimes, it’s best to focus on what I won’t do.
1. I won’t feel bad if my kids experience boredom.
Every summer, I promise myself not to let guilt dictate my actions, but somehow, I end up inundating my kids with suggestions to alleviate their boredom. This only leads to frustration on my part when they dismiss my ideas—like building a blanket fort or enjoying the carefully planned road trip. This summer, I’m determined to let them tackle their own boredom. They’ll discover that they won’t crumble without constant entertainment or a jam-packed schedule.
2. I will not, under any circumstances, go camping.
Camping is just not for me. It makes me feel grimy, and no matter how many different types of sleeping arrangements I try—those cots are not cutting it. I love the great outdoors but prefer to enjoy nature during a hike, not by sleeping on the ground. I miss the comforts of home too much, like running water and a clean bathroom. My kids can pitch a tent in the yard and play to their hearts’ content, but I’ll be inside, relishing my air conditioning. I’m perfectly fine enjoying a non-camping summer!
3. I will not feel guilty about indulging my kids with ice cream frequently.
When it comes to ice cream, my family believes in abundance. It’s not just a special treat; it’s a summer staple! If I want to serve my kids ice cream for breakfast, I will. After all, waffle cones were invented for a reason. Sure, it’s not the healthiest option, but it makes up for the fact that we won’t be roughing it in the wild (see #2).
4. I refuse to worry about summer learning loss.
If my kids want to take a break from schoolwork, that’s perfectly okay. In the past, I stressed too much about the “summer slide,” which only led to tears and frustration on all sides. I remember my own carefree summers without nightly math drills or extensive reading lists, and I turned out just fine! This year, I’m choosing to prioritize fun over academics; if they want to engage in learning, great, but I won’t force it.
5. I will not set unrealistic expectations for every moment.
I won’t be chasing after the idea of enjoying every single second of summer. While I’ll cherish the good times, I’m not going to fool myself into thinking that having my kids home non-stop will be a dream come true. I love my children dearly, but I value my sanity even more. Accepting that not every moment will be magical will keep me from feeling disappointed.
Instead of creating elaborate plans and lists for our summer, I’m committing to a more relaxed approach. With my eldest turning 16 this year, I know it’s time to embrace this new phase of summer life.
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Summary
This summer, I’m focusing on what I won’t do, from feeling guilty about my kids being bored to avoiding the discomfort of camping. I’m embracing indulgence with ice cream, letting go of worries about learning loss, and rejecting the pressure to enjoy every moment. Instead, I’ll prioritize relaxation and cherish the time with my family.