7 Jul 25 •
When summer rolls around, parents often feel the pressure to plan everything, from daily activities to your holidays and of course the childcare. Here’s a secret that we wish more parents knew: involving your children in the planning process can make summer more enjoyable for everyone. Not only does it empower kids to make choices, but it also leads to fewer battles over schedules, activities, and screen time.
Here’s how to get your children engaged in creating their own summer fun and why it’s a win-win for everyone too.
1. Give Kids a Voice
Start by sitting down with your child and asking what they want to do this summer. It could be as simple as:
Even young children love the feeling of being heard. When they have input, they’re more likely to get excited about the plans.
2. Create a Summer Bucket List
Help your child write down a list of activities they’d like to do. Include a mix of big and small ideas, from baking cookies to going on a nature walk or visiting the local museum. You can revisit the list each week to choose what to do together.
3. Teach Time Management (Without the Boredom)
Introduce the idea of a loose summer schedule. Ask your child to help build a daily routine that includes playtime, rest, learning, outdoor time, and screen time. Giving them this responsibility teaches valuable planning skills and builds a sense of independence.
4. Offer Choices, Not Open-Ended Questions
Instead of asking, “What do you want to do today?”, offer two or three parent-approved options. For example:
“Would you rather go to the park, do a science experiment, or play games?”
Your child will still feel in control but you avoid chaos and decision fatigue (not to mention meltdowns too).
When children feel like they’ve helped shape their summer, they’re more cooperative, more excited and more likely to try new things. Empower your child with a voice in the planning process and watch their independence grow whilst having fun and plenty of connection with you too.
© Yellow Days Ltd 2023