Now that summer is finally here, what are you most excited about? For many families, it’s the slower pace (unless you’re deep in the travel ball circuit!). For others, it’s the chance to fill the calendar with fun activities. No matter which camp you fall into, summer often brings a unique kind of pressure. Suddenly, we’re expected to become our family’s cruise director, which can be even more stressful than the school year!
So, how do we find that balance between enjoying downtime with our kids while also keeping them entertained? Sure, we can fill their schedules with camps and organized activities—but is that what’s best for them? Unstructured play is just as important. It fosters creativity, independence, problem-solving, and social skills. Letting kids build forts, ride bikes, or invent their own games gives them the freedom to explore and learn at their own pace. In fact, stepping back and letting them take the lead can be better for everyone, parents included! For more ideas on how to strike that balance, check out I’m Not the Entertainment, but I Still Want to Have Fun by Rebecca Hastings.
Here on the Gulf Coast, having summer fun is easy—after all, there’s no shortage of things to do! We’re excited to share our annual Summer Fun Activity Guide, packed with boredom busters and memory-makers to keep your family active and happy all summer, rain or shine.
Kids aren’t the only ones who need time to unwind and connect with friends. Just as our children need meaningful friendships, we, as parents, need our own support systems, too. Whether your community comes from neighbors, church, or activities, finding your group can make a big difference. If you’ve recently moved, started a new job, or are parenting kids in different life stages, building those connections can take more effort, but it’s worth it. Sarah Lynons offers great insight in this month’s feature, The Importance of Connecting with Your Community.
And speaking of parents, last month, we had the joy of celebrating all the amazing moms and mother figures in our lives. This month, it’s time to lift up the dads and father figures! Father’s Day is about showing them how much they mean to us, whether through a thoughtful gift, a warm hug, or a few heartfelt words. For fun inspiration, check out 10 Fun and Creative Ways to Celebrate Dad, by Rebecca Hastings.
As we officially kick off summer break, I would like to wish everyone a spectacular summer filled with great family time, whether it is just playing games at the house or big vacation adventures. To all the dads and father figures, Happy Father’s Day!
Author: Lynn Knighton
Lynn has called the Mobile Bay area home since 2006 with her husband Brad and their 3 daughters. Following the sale of her Abrakadoodle franchise, Lynn still wanted to serve families and help them thrive. Becoming the Publisher of Mobile Bay Parents was the perfect opportunity. Now she invests into family's lives each month by providing the with the area's #1 go-to resource for moms and dads.
