Warm days full of light are almost on our doorstep, along with the perennial parental question: How can we make the most of it?
Coordinating camps, playdates, practices and downtime can feel like a full-time responsibility.
But with a little planning and the right mindset, summer offers a rich season for children’s personal growth, emerging creativity and social connections. Here’s how to strike the right balance, according to Dr. Ashok Shimoji-Krishnan, a clinical psychiatrist for children and adolescents at Kaiser Permanente Capitol Hill Medical Center.
End of school year transitions
“A big piece of the transition hinges on the end of the school year. If the school year felt successful, kids will be more confident transitioning into a week or two of downtime, then getting on board with activities,” he says. “But if kids are feeling overwhelmed, you may need to allow for more rest before picking up a new activity.”
Before the school doors close for summer break, collect phone numbers of other parents to begin the planning. “Sometimes it takes a lot of coordination to maintain connections over the summer,” Shimoji-Krishnan says.
Camps and classes
Summer offers time to explore beyond the usual, says Shimoji-Krishnan, whether a sleepaway camp that explores our shores and lakes, a weeklong aerospace camp for the star-watchers or a half-day sewing camp for the budding fashion designers.
“Camps can be an opportunity to meet new people and try new activities in an environment that’s safe and monitored,” he says. “Look for experiences that match your child’s interests.”
Addressing boredom
We’ve learned that boredom is important in childhood development,” Shimoji-Krishnan says. “It promotes creativity, builds independence to try new things and helps develop emotional regulation and resilience, all of which are important for adults.”
Boredom doesn’t mean you need to do a big shopping trip after school lets out, but you can ensure there’s a stash of what Shimoji-Krishnan calls “old-school toys” without directions, like blocks, Legos, action figures and art supplies. “Having toys without defined rules or objectives helps spark activity and imagination,” he says. It’s a great substitute for screen time, which the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends keeping to no more than 2 hours per day, even in summer.
Festivals and events
Festivals and events are a beloved summer pastime for Shimoji-Krishnan and his family. “Before we go, we discuss what to expect, what we will do and see, and what the food options will be like. Lay out the landscape, especially for kids who can feel anxious or need reassurance.”
Parents can help prep kids by bringing favorite snacks or foods, water, sunglasses and hats, sunscreen, and headphones to protect ears from loud concerts. Have a plan for a quiet break if anyone needs to escape the heat, sounds and smells of a busy event.
Many families in the Pacific Northwest look forward to the annual Seafair festival, with multiple events over the summer including hydroplane races and the Seafair pirates. One especially family-friendly part of Seafair is the Kaiser Permanente Torchlight Run. This 5K race moves along Seattle’s renovated waterfront. It takes place on July 25 and is open to runners of all experience levels. You can learn more about the festival and register for the run at seafair.org.
Finding balance
Summer doesn’t need to be packed with activities to be meaningful. A balance of structure, rest, and exploration can give children space to grow. The moments that often matter most are the ones that allow kids to connect and enjoy the season.
