Being a parent in the summer is HARD. It feels hard because it is REALLY HARD. The excitement and anticipation of summer with its slower pace, fewer commitments, and family vacations can quickly morph into overwhelm and exhaustion with its lack of structure, weekly changing routine, and endless possibilities. Your dreams of a blissful summer may have quickly turned into an hourly countdown till bedtime.

Here are a few things to keep in mind:

We are told that the number of summers with our children is limited so we had better make the most of them. However, while summers may look different when they’re older, we will still have plenty of time to be with our children even after they’re eighteen.

The small moments of quiet connection at home can be just as meaningful as the Instagram worthy big moments in some exotic location.
Remind yourself (for the millionth time) that it’s okay for your children to be bored. You do not need to be their cruise director every minute of the day. It is also a good opportunity as a parent to practice your tolerance for your child’s distress and boredom.
Some days will be wonderful and some days will be notably less so. We cannot escape the daily realities of life in the summertime. There will be highs and lows just like every other time of the year, even though we may expect (or our children may expect) that every moment of summer should be perfect.
Not everything will go according to plan. You may forget what day of the week it is. You may forget what time camp drop-off is since it changes every week. You may forget your call with a client since you thought they were out of town. The list goes on and on. Remind yourself that summer is hard. Juggling all the balls (that seem to change every day or every week) can feel almost impossible.
Family time can be amazing. Alone time can also be amazing. If possible, try to schedule something fun or relaxing that is just for you. Not only because you deserve it, but also because it is a necessity for your own well-being.
Going to work in the summer and feeling like you’re missing out on family time can feel excruciating some days. It can also feel like a relief on other days. Parent-guilt can get taken up a notch in the summer but remember that you are not alone in all these feelings.
Take a deep breath. Now take another deep breath. And one more deep breath.
Summer is hard AND we can do hard things.