Annie of South Shore Moms with her kids
They can have their Hot Girl Summer Mom back. Ditto for that idyllic 90s Summer everyone keeps talking about (read our realistic version). A nostalgic summer is great, but recreating a time when most moms didn’t work is tough these days. The pressure is totally unnecessary.
This year, we’re aiming for Sane Girl Summer, aka Manageable for Moms Summer aka Summer So Everyone Has Fun (Including Mom). The first step? Realizing your summer doesn’t have to look like anyone else’s, especially not with the filters and fictionalized version on social media. Nobody lives in your home, has your budget, is parenting your kids, has your support (or lack thereof) or is experiencing your particular state of mental health. Everyone walks through motherhood differently, and summer, with its lack of routine, shows that even more clearly than the school year.
So remember there are no rules, but here are 5 guidelines we’re following so we get to September with some core memories made….and our sanity intact.
Plan One Fun Thing a Week
You don’t need to plan out every minute of every day with magic moments. But intentionally planning small sparks of joy, like ice cream after pick-up or a picnic at the beach, will help you make memories that will last far past September. If your kids aren’t in camp, one bigger adventure a week, like an amusement park outing, can give your summer structure and fun.
Start One New Tradition
Friday night pizza at the park or pool with friends, catching fireflies after dinner or a weekly trip to the library can also add to that slight structure that makes memories but doesn’t add stress.
Stick to a Daily Rhythm
Loosely organizing your day can help you build in time for work and self-care. For instance, consider getting outside before the heat of the day, coming home for inside time around lunch, and then head back outside after the sun starts to fade. This rhythm can be a lifesaver on those days your kids don’t have camp.
Keep A Go-Bag in Your Trunk
This is hands-down our favorite summer mom hack. Pack up an extra tote with sunscreen, waters, bug spray, a first aid kit, snacks that won’t melt and an extra swimsuit, pair of clothes and PJs, and you’ll be able to stay out the next time plans pop up unexpectedly.
Carve Out Time For Yourself Like Your Life Depends On It
Without the buffer of school, the effects of putting yourself on the back burner will show up sooner in resentment, rage and burnout. Don’t feel bad about hiring a babysitter if the budget allows for it every once in awhile. Or ask for help from a close family member or friend. Take time to work out, make doctor appointments, cook and eat food you like and that nourishes you, and read a book or listen to a podcast. In many ways, your entire sanity this summer hinges on your ability to tend to your needs while taking care of everyone else’s.
