The universe seems to be having a good laugh at all of us who were frantically rearranging our summer calendars a few months ago during the chilly, slushy days of late winter, eagerly awaiting the summer camp registration deadline. Back in February, I thought I had our summer all figured out. As a parent, I’m used to shouldering the hefty cost of summer camps—nearly $6,000 for a 10-week experience for my three children. With my oldest at nine and my twins nearing seven, they can’t be left alone for long—30 minutes is often pushing it. In my role as a freelancer and small business owner, if I don’t work, I don’t earn. To cut down on expenses this year, my ex and I decided to balance some camps with the help of a teenage babysitter. I patted myself on the back for my clever planning.
Then reality hit me like an unexpected wave at a sporting event. Suddenly, the coronavirus swept across the country, and everything went haywire.
Summer breaks are already challenging for parents, especially those juggling work. This extended period of staying home, combined with the heat and limited escape options, is bound to be a long one. Depending on your location, there may be camps or daycare options available, but their safety is another question entirely. Many of us have received cancellations or had to call off plans due to health concerns or financial strain. Camps are exorbitantly priced, and for many, taking three months off isn’t feasible. It’s not good for our professional relationships, mental well-being, or finances. You can almost hear the universe laughing, can’t you? The pandemic has added a layer of stress as summer approaches, leaving parents scrambling. Fine, Universe! I’ll adapt!
On the bright side, I have the luxury of working at night. As our state starts to reopen, I’ll be able to resume working outside the house with new safety measures. I still plan on having a dependable helper, but nothing is set in stone, and I’ve accepted the uncertainty of it all. Thankfully, many employers are in similar situations, and I appreciate the understanding of my bosses and clients.
On the downside, kids are incredibly loud and messy. It feels like a never-ending parade in my home, and someone always ends up hurt. I assure you, Boss, that assignment is on its way! And it’s not like my kids can take their nosebleeds elsewhere. Playgrounds, pools, air-conditioned play areas, and theaters will remain closed or too risky to visit. Our little street, nature walks (which my kids disdainfully call “not another stupid nature walk”), and the backyard will be our summer playground.
So, I followed my instincts and went to Amazon to search for “toys that will keep my kids entertained for eight hours while I work.” The classic game Simon popped up, alongside the movie Sahara featuring Matthew McConaughey and Penelope Cruz. I refined my search and justified the spending by considering the money I was saving on camps, summer sports, haircuts, and pool passes from our pre-pandemic lives.
Reflecting on my own childhood summers in the ’80s, I knew the good old days of sprinklers, bikes, and scooters were back in action. To enhance our summer fun, I ordered sidewalk chalk, super soakers, a hammock, and a brand-new basketball hoop. Without a second thought, I also purchased a 10×30 inch inflatable pool for the backyard, complete with a pump and the need for chlorine tabs—hopefully, I can keep the water clear! While it may not be ideal for swimming, it’s certainly an upgrade from our baby pool, which quickly turns into a muddy soup. The kids can pretend it’s their own private hot tub at a luxury resort.
Speaking of luxury, I made sure to add Fla-Vor-Ice pops to our grocery list, with white bread and mayonnaise sandwiches to complete the menu.
My kids are beyond excited about all these changes. While my schedule may be chaotic, theirs is shaping up to be just how it should be. They wake up naturally instead of being dragged out of bed, usually around 7:00 or 7:30 a.m.—so don’t get too envious! They play, eat breakfast when they’re ready, and then enjoy some cartoons. Once screens are off, they do what kids do: play, argue, laugh, devour snacks, and constantly go in and out of the house, much to my chagrin as I repeatedly tell them to shut the door.
The house is a mess and smells like a gym locker room, and I’m thoroughly exhausted from cleaning up crumbs to keep the ants at bay. Yet, as I settle into this haphazard summer plan, I find myself more accepting of it. My kids are content at home, and I’m grateful I can provide that, even if it adds to my stress. I remind myself that I’m not alone in this; we’re all doing our best to keep our boats afloat. Let’s hope that there are no more surprises, like murder hornets being followed by attacking squirrels or aliens deciding to drop in after seeing our current mess.
Cheers to what may very well be the most unconventional summer, which might just turn into my kids’ best one yet. For more insights on making the most of your summer, check out this helpful post on our blog.
Summary: The pandemic has significantly altered summer plans for many families, prompting creative solutions and adaptations. While the challenges of working from home with kids can be overwhelming, the joy and excitement of children discovering new activities can make for a memorable summer experience. Embracing the chaos and focusing on family togetherness may lead to unexpected joys during this unique time.