Summer is a time of sunshine, fun, and often, a bit of chaos - especially for working parents. Balancing work with kids’ schedules and trying to make the most of the season can be overwhelming. Coordinating multiple camps, activities, and childcare often turns into a logistical nightmare with different drop-off and pick-up times, locations, and specific requirements (don’t forget a change of clothes for preschool “Water Day” or to dress in luau theme for camp on Friday!).

With children home all day, keeping them engaged without relying too heavily on screen time is a challenge. The house typically gets messier, chores pile up, and maintaining a consistent routine becomes tough. This might leads to late bedtimes, irregular meals, and overall disruption of daily schedules.

However, with some careful planning and organization, you can limit the stress this season. Here are some tips and tricks to help you stay sane and keep you family organized during the summer months ahead.

Adopt the Nightly Reset

One of the best ways to start your day off right is to prepare the night before. Dedicate 15-20 minutes each evening to put things away and get “tomorrow ready.” This simple routine can make a huge difference in how smoothly your mornings go. Pack lunches and lay out clothes for camps or daycare, and tidy up the living areas.

The nightly reset doesn’t have to be a solo effort either. Get the whole family involved! Assign each family member a specific task, such as clearing the dining table, picking up toys, or preparing breakfast items. This not only speeds up the process but also teaches children the importance of contributing to household responsibilities. Make it fun by playing music or make it a game by using a timer.

You’ll be grateful for the effort when you wake up to a more organized and peaceful morning. Think of it as s gift to your future self. A little effort in the evening means a less chaotic start to your day.

2. Assemble a Summer Survival Kit

Summer is all about spontaneous adventures, and being prepared can make these outings much more enjoyable. Put together a summer survival kit that includes essentials like sunscreen, bug spray, snacks, water bottles, and activities for outings. Keep this kit handy in your car or by the door. This way, you’re always ready for a quick trip to the park, pool, or a friend’s house without the stress of last-minute packing. Being organized with a go-kit can save you time and ensure that you have everything you need to enjoy those beautiful summer days when the opportunity strikes.

You can even customize your summer survival kit based on your family’s interests and activities. If you have young children, include things like wet wipes and extra clothes. If your family enjoys outdoor sports, pack a few extra balls and outdoor games.

Refresh your kit regularly to ensure you always have fresh snacks and the supplies you need. Having this kit ready to go can significantly reduce the stress of spontaneous outings, allowing you to focus more on enjoying the time with your family rather than worrying about what you might have forgotten.

3. Create a Summer Schedule

Your summer schedule doesn’t have to be rigid, but having a framework can help maintain a sense of order. A well-thought-out summer schedule can help manage expectations and ensure everyone gets to enjoy their favorite activities while keeping your household running smoothly. Flexibility is key, but having a general plan can prevent the days from feeling chaotic.

Designate times for work, activities, play, and chores. Consider weekly themes or activities to add variety and have something fun to look forward to each week - think “Water Wednesdays” for pool days or “Throwback Thursdays” for family movie nights. Encourage your kids to contribute ideas and ensure everyone’s interest are included - making it a summer to remember for everyone!

4. Use a Family Calendar

A centralized family calendar is a must for staying organized during the summer. Whether it’s a physical calendar in the kitchen or a shared digital calendar, make sure everyone in the family has access. Include important events, appointments, and activities. This helps avoid scheduling conflicts and ensures everyone knows what’s happening and when. You can also color-code activities for each family member to make it even more user friendly. A well-maintained family calendar can serve as the command center of your household, keeping everyone in sync and on the same page.

A family calendar can be functional and fun. Let your kids decorate it with stickers or drawings to make it more engaging. For tech-savvy families, shared digital calendars can be synchronized across everyone’s devices and even be displayed on an in-home smart device, providing real-time updates and reminders.

5. Practice Meal Planning

Meal planning is a great way to save time, money, and reduce daily stress when you’re working during the week. Plan your family meals ahead of time and consider batch cooking and freezing meals for those especially busy days. Involve your kids in meal prep to make it a fun family activity. They’ll enjoy helping out, and you’ll appreciate the extra hands in the kitchen.

To make meal planning more efficient, create a rotating menu of favorite meals. This reduces time spent deciding what to cook. Involve your children in the planning process by letting them choose a meal each week. Utilize slow cookers or instant pots to simplify meal prep. Meal planning is a critical aspect of staying organized during those busy summer weeks, helping you stay on top of nutrition without feeling overwhelmed.

Conclusion

By incorporating some of these strategies, you can create a more manageable and enjoyable summer for you and your family. The key is to stay organized, ensure everyone pitches in, and be prepared for those spontaneous fun moments amidst the work-life routine. Incorporating even a few of the tips above can make a significant difference in how smoothly your summer runs. Remember, the goal is to make the most of those long days and sunny months without sacrificing your sanity! Enjoy the season with your loved ones… and don’t forget to take some well-deserved time for yourself, too.

Kristen Whalen Simplified Professional Organizing Pittsburgh PA

Hi there! I’m Kristen, and I’m a professional organizer and owner of Simplified Professional Organizing in Pittsburgh, PA. My team and I absolutely love helping people simplify their homes, businesses, and day-to-day lives. No matter where you’re at in your organizing journey, we’re here to help.

Click HERE to schedule a complimentary consultation to talk about how we can help you eliminate the overwhelm and reclaim space in life for what truly matters most!

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