We all want our kids to have a fun summer, but that can lead some parents to stress out trying to plan the perfect one. But according to a recent Threads post, we’re really overthinking it. User Parenting With Systems shares the way a dad of seven thinks about summer with his kids, using what he calls the four-part Summer Memory Map.
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“The best summer memories usually come from repeatable anchors, not elaborate plans,” the post reads. So more of simple activities, easy adventures and things that build anticipation, and less “epic” summer bucket list pressure.
Here’s how the Summer Memory Map works:
- One tiny weekly ritual – “This should be small enough to survive a tired week,” according to the dad. So, things like Friday pancakes, post-dinner bike ride, Saturday donuts in pajamas or movie night with blankets. The idea is a ritual that the family can do even when everyone is tired from a long week, and “if it requires matching outfits, a reservation, or the emotional stamina of a camp counselor on espresso, it’s too big.”
- One monthly “fandango” – This is a “slightly bigger” activity or event that gives the kids something to look forward to, like a trip to the creek, backyard camping, a picnic dinner at the park, or an ice cream crawl. “A fandango is not a vacation,” the post explains. “It is not core memory Olympics.”
- One kid-led choice – Parents tend to make a lot of the summer plans, from picking the camps to controlling the timing, and then we wonder why kids “act like tiny disgruntled board members with no voting rights.” Give them a little ownership by letting them suggest something fun for the family. They usually just want ice cream or to bring pizza to the pool, but it’s their choice.
- One no-phone memory moment – A little digital detox is good for everyone. Pick one “repeatable moment where the phone is not the main character,” the post notes, as “some moments need to be lived before they’re documented.”
- So basically, ditch the idea of a perfect summer and give kids a few fun things to look forward to and they’ll be happy. It might just be that simple.
Source: Scary Mommy
