Summer is a time of sun, relaxation, and cherished moments with family. However, as a social worker/psychotherapist who supports many moms with overwhelm, I find it can also bring a wave of pressure akin to December holiday stress. Many describe the pressure to create the experiences and lasting memories for their children, in the least organize schedules so that happens. The reality is that cherished memories often form in the simplest moments, when we are fully present and engaged with our loved ones. Here’s how you can embrace the essence of summer without the stress, and some tips on how moms can stay in the moment this season.

The Burden of Perfection

As summer approaches, the influx of social media posts showcasing seemingly perfect family outings, elaborate vacations, and endless activities can create an unrealistic standard. Moms can feel overwhelmed with the need to replicate these experiences, thinking that more planning, more activities, and more expenses are necessary to make summer memorable. However, the most cherished memories often stem from the simplest, most spontaneous moments. Dancing in sprinklers, blowing bubbles, playing together can all be valuable time, especially if it means a less stressed parent.

Being Present: The Key to Making Memories

Special memories are not manufactured through grand plans; they happen naturally when we are fully present. Being in the moment with your children—whether it’s during a lazy afternoon at the park, a spontaneous ice cream outing, or a simple backyard campout—can create a lasting impact.

5 Tips for Staying in the Moment This Summer

1. Embrace Simplicity
You don’t need to plan extravagant activities every day. Embrace the simple pleasures of summer like a walk in the park, a picnic in the backyard, or an evening stargazing. These moments often become the most treasured memories.

2. Disconnect to Connect
While devices can be useful, create intentional moments to put away the phone and other distractions when spending time together. Being fully present, giving your undivided attention to the moment, helps us notice it’s significance and exceptionality. This connection also fosters deeper relationships and more meaningful interactions. Bonus you may notice more regulation for you and your child(ren), not just from no screens but as a side effect from positively connecting with each other.

3. Follow Your Children’s Lead
This is my personal favourite tip. I can’t count the times I planned even simple crafts that were work for me that my kids just weren’t into. Sometimes activities they liked on a day, my adult mind wanted to recreate, yet the moment passed for them. Children have a natural ability to live in the moment. Let them guide the day’s activities sometimes. Their sense of wonder and spontaneity can lead to unexpected and delightful experiences that don’t require extensive planning.

4. Practice Mindfulness
Mindfulness techniques can help you stay grounded and present. Whether it’s taking a few deep breaths, practicing gratitude, or simply observing the surroundings with your child, these practices can enhance your ability to enjoy the moment fully.

5. Create Rituals and Traditions
This isn’t about returning to overplanning, rather it’s simplifying. In our home a morning routine including breakfast together, some dance and in summers watering our garden gets our day started on a better note. Simple, recurring activities can become cherished traditions. Whether it’s a weekly family movie night, Sunday pancake breakfasts, or evening walks, these small rituals provide a sense of continuity and connection that children will remember fondly.

Conclusion

As moms, the pressure to create the a memorable summer can be overwhelming. Remember, the essence of making memories lies in being fully present and enjoying the simple moments with your children. By embracing simplicity, disconnecting from distractions, following your children’s lead, practicing mindfulness, and creating small traditions, you can cultivate a summer filled with genuine, memorable experiences and less stress!

This summer, let go of the stressful overplanning that’s likely to leave you burnout, and allow yourself to enjoy the moment too.