Top 5 Tips to create an awesome summer

Top 5 Tips to Create an Awesome Summer (2025 Edition)
Written by Anisa Lewis
Positive Parenting Coach | Helping families thrive, not just survive

You did it — another school year in the bag!

Whether it felt like a marathon or a whirlwind, here you are… staring down the summer holidays. Six weeks (or more!) of time with your children. That can feel exciting, daunting, or a mix of both — totally normal.

So, if you’re wondering how to make the most of the summer break without burnout, overwhelm, or guilt... you’re in the right place.

Here are my Top 5 Tips to create an awesome summer for your family — one that works for you, not one that’s fuelled by social media perfection or Pinterest pressure.

Tip 1 – Manage Expectations (Yours & Theirs)

Communication is everything.

Take some time to talk as a family about what summer might look like, what everyone’s hoping for, and what’s realistically doable. This doesn’t have to be formal. For younger kids, it might mean drawing pictures of their summer dreams. For tweens and teens, a casual chat over dinner or even a shared note on a phone can work.

What do you want summer to feel like? Calm? Fun? Flexible? Structured?

Set expectations together, from screen time to helping out at home, and even how you’ll handle boredom or down days. The more involved your children are in shaping the plan, the more likely they’ll engage with it.

And remember: You don’t have to be “on” all summer. Set the tone with self-compassion. It’s okay not to do everything or feel joyful 24/7.

Tip 2 – Loosely Structure Your Days

When school routines vanish, time can feel like it’s slipping through your fingers. That lack of rhythm can often lead to stress (for both you and the kids).

You don’t need a rigid timetable, but having a gentle flow to your day — a morning routine, time outside, some quiet time, meals together — can really help.

Think rhythm, not routine.

You might post a weekly family planner or simply talk through “what’s happening today” over breakfast. Giving older kids ownership over part of the plan can also boost cooperation (and reduce complaints!).

Want a win-win? Let them plan a themed day (like “pizzeria night” or “DIY sports day”) it builds independence and lightens your load.

Tip 3 – Embrace Boredom (Yes, Really!)

“I’m boooooored!”
If you haven’t heard this yet, it’s probably coming.

But here’s the good news: boredom is not the enemy. In fact, it’s essential for creativity, resilience and problem-solving.

You can create a boredom jar or list, filled with simple ideas: chalk drawings, baking, building a fort, writing a comic, sorting toys for donation, etc. But don’t feel the need to rescue them from every dull moment. Let them find their own fun.

A bit of boredom helps kids learn to entertain themselves without constant stimulation, a gift in today’s fast-paced, screen-filled world.

Tip 4 – Set Small Goals & Celebrate Big Wins

You don’t need to “make it through the whole summer.” Just aim for small wins.

Maybe it’s getting to bedtime with everyone fed and (mostly) happy. Maybe it’s five minutes of calm while you sip your cuppa. Celebrate those.

Setting small, achievable goals for the day (or week) helps everyone stay motivated. And when things go well, notice it. Say it out loud. Make it a moment.

Because when we focus on what’s going right, we build confidence and connection.

Tip 5 – Ask for Help (and Accept It)

You are not meant to do this alone.

Whether it’s trading childcare with a friend, asking grandparents for a day or two, or reaching out to your parenting network, say what you need. Summer can feel long, especially if you’re working, juggling multiple roles, or managing different age groups.

Create a support system now, before you hit burnout. You’re not failing by needing help — you’re being resourceful. And your future self will thank you.

Summer doesn’t have to be perfect to be memorable.

It just needs a little intention, flexibility, and kindness, especially towards yourself.

These tips are just the start. If you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure how to make this summer work for your unique family, I’m here to help.

Book your FREE chat today and let’s create a plan that fits your family — one that feels good, not forced.