Intentional Summer: Creating a Fun & Fulfilling Break with Your Kids
The final school bell rings. Backpacks hit the floor. And just like that, summer begins.
While summer break often brings excitement and relief, it can also come with stress for parents—especially when trying to balance fun, structure, work, and wellness. The good news? You don’t need a Pinterest-perfect plan. What matters most is being present, intentional, and connected.
At Pursuing Wellness, we believe summer is a beautiful opportunity to nurture your family’s well-being—physically, emotionally, and relationally. Here’s how to make this break a season of joy, growth, and meaningful memories.
1. Create Rhythms, Not Rigid Routines
Children thrive with a sense of structure, but summer should feel different from the school year. Try creating daily rhythms rather than strict schedules.
Example rhythm:
Morning: Movement + breakfast + mindful moment
Midday: Independent play + family activity or outing
Afternoon: Quiet time + creative play
Evening: Dinner + family check-in + bedtime routine
Having a flow to the day offers predictability and flexibility, which supports both kids and parents.
2. Prioritize Connection Over Perfection
Summer isn’t about doing it all. It’s about being together.
You don’t need extravagant trips or daily outings to make memories.
Connection happens in the ordinary:
A slow breakfast together
A spontaneous dance party in the living room
A shared journal where everyone writes something they’re grateful for
A walk at sunset, just talking and noticing nature
The little moments build lifelong bonds.
3. Incorporate Simple Wellness Habits as a Family
Summer is the perfect time to model healthy habits in fun and engaging ways.
Try:
Family stretch sessions or yoga in the mornings
Breathing breaks during transitions or meltdowns
Outdoor play or nature walks as movement
Hydration and healthy snacks—let kids help choose or prepare
Journaling or drawing emotions after a long day
Your kids don’t need a lecture on wellness—they need to see you living it out alongside them.
4. Embrace Boredom as a Gift
It’s okay if your child says, “I’m bored.” Boredom creates space for creativity, rest, and self-regulation.
Instead of filling every moment, keep a “Boredom Box” of open-ended activities they can choose from (craft supplies, building toys, nature scavenger lists, books, etc.). Let their imaginations take the lead.
5. Protect Your Peace as a Parent
Summer can be demanding—especially if you’re working, caregiving, or managing your own healing journey. You matter, too.
Wake up 10 minutes early for prayer, journaling, or breathwork
Set boundaries around screen time or overstimulation for both you and your kids
Ask for help when you need a break
Schedule moments just for you, even if it’s a solo walk or a hot cup of tea
The more grounded you are, the more joy you can pour into your family.
Let This Summer Be One of Wholeness
This isn’t about being the perfect parent—it’s about being present and intentional.
This summer, may your home be filled with laughter, calm moments, growth, rest, and connection.
And when challenges arise (because they will), may you give yourself grace, take a breath, and remember: you’re doing better than you think.
Looking for Support This Summer?
At Pursuing Wellness, we’re here to walk with you through every season of parenthood.
Explore our summer offerings:
Family Wellness Sessions
Mindfulness & Movement for Kids
Pursuing Healing (for parents navigating trauma)
Coaching & therapy for parenting support and emotional balance
Summer Kids Wellness Workshops (ages 7–12)
Let’s make this a summer to feel good—together.