Today I want to talk about how I am planning Summer activities for my family. Every Summer is different. Sometimes I go all out and other times I try to keep it simple. This year with social distancing still in affect I have no choice but to slim down our expectations. No pool or water park days. No library or movie theater day either. Nevertheless, there are still plenty of things to entertain us this Summer.
ORGANIZING
I always start by organizing activities we already have and what I would like to add. After that, I start to make a rough budget. It’s usually pretty small unless someone needs something like a new bike. Most kids are happy just to be outside with their friends but there are days when they need a little help. I like to stock up on things like water balloons, water guns, bubbles, chalk, and glow sticks.
One thing I love to have on hand are water games like Wet Head, Soggy Doggy and a Slip-n-Slide. These games work well when the kids have friends over and they are complaining about being bored. Something they can all do together and cool off.
After I organize what we already have and set a budget, I pull out my planning budget sheet. This printable helps me organize the activities we want based on the budget I already made. This sheet is separated in sections: Outdoor Fun, Food Fun, Learning Fun, Fun Trips, Craft Fun, and a blank square for another category of your choice. In addition, there’s a section to add the cost associated with each activity. I also grab our Summer Live List and a list of 115 Fun Cheap Activities to Do this Summer list from this blog post. With all these laid out in front of me I can start planning.
I like to start with things that may trigger anxiety for me…meals, snacks, and routine. If these areas are planned in advance it will save me from decision fatigue and making poor decisions. This way everyone knows what to expect and we’re all on the same page.
MEALS
Probably one of the most important aspects of summer planning are the meals. I’ve written out lunches for every week day and snacks options. This way my hubby or oldest daughter can make the little boys lunch and not have to think about it.
Click here to download the meal plan printables!
SCHEDULE
We always have some sort of routine that can be adjusted as needed. I’m a little more laid back during the summer so we have more time to play outside. I created a summer schedule and hung it up where everyone will see it daily.
This schedule worked for us last year so if it ain’t broke! And that’s it! Now I’m organized and prepared for a great Summer while still leaving time for the kids to play on their own. I also have more time to be creative and spontaneous when new ideas come up. BEING ORGANIZED HELPS ME TO BE MORE SPONTANEOUS. Planning Summer activities doesn’t have to be stressful or even time consuming tasks. Your kids want to be with your more than any of the stuff you may buy for them. Just keep it simple and have fun!
Let me know in the comments what you’re planning this Summer?
