Feeling the Pressure to Have the Perfect Summer? Let’s Rethink That.

Summer is finally here! The kids are out of school, and for some families, that means camp schedules and travel plans. For others, it might mean slower mornings, neighborhood bike rides, and wondering what now?

If you’re not packing bags for a big vacation or sending your kids to week-long camps, you’re not alone—and you’re not falling behind. In fact, summer can be a wonderful opportunity to reset expectations, focus on your family’s needs, and enjoy simple, meaningful moments together.

The Problem With “What Are Your Summer Plans?”

We’ve all seen it: the Instagram stories filled with beach trips, amusement parks, and Pinterest-worthy activities. Even the seemingly innocent question—“What are your summer plans?”—can trigger feelings of comparison, stress, or inadequacy, especially when your summer doesn’t look like someone else’s.

But here’s the truth: you don’t need a packed itinerary to have a fulfilling summer. Your kids don’t need to visit five states or attend every camp in town. What they need most is connection, stability, and joyful moments that align with your values and capacity.

5 Ways to Ease Summer Pressure and Find Joy

1. Limit Social Media Scrolling. It’s natural to compare when you’re constantly seeing highlight reels. If Instagram is triggering feelings of “not doing enough,” take a break or unfollow accounts that spark anxiety instead of inspiration. You don't need a curated feed to validate your summer choices.

2. Focus on What You Can Do. Didn’t plan a trip this year? That’s okay. Look ahead: could a weekend road trip or future vacation be something to plan slowly and save for together? Involving the whole family in planning—even if it’s a year away—can turn anticipation into excitement rather than pressure.

3. Embrace the Outdoors, Your Way. You don’t need to hike a mountain to benefit from nature. A morning walk around the block, a backyard picnic, or an evening trip to a local park offers sunlight, movement, and mood-boosting benefits. Aim for at least 15 minutes outside in the morning and again in the late afternoon.

4. Try Something New Together. Summer is a great time to explore new hobbies. You could learn to garden, play tennis, start a family walking challenge, or teach your child to cook a new recipe. It’s not about mastering something—it's about learning and laughing together.

5. Practice Gratitude as a Family. At the end of each day, ask each family member: What’s one thing you’re thankful for today? It’s a small ritual that can foster connection and shift the focus from “what we didn’t do” to “what we enjoyed.”

Final Thoughts

Your summer doesn’t have to match anyone else’s. The real magic often lives in the slower moments—when kids build a fort out of couch cushions or watch the stars from the driveway. Give yourself permission to say “no” to pressure and “yes” to presence.

Let this be the summer your family remembers for being simple, joyful, and just right for you.