Ah, summer break—filled with sunshine, laughter, and endless opportunities for memory-making. But let’s be honest, moms: it’s also filled with 537 versions of “Mom! Mom! Mommy! Mama!” before lunchtime and refereeing sibling squabbles on repeat. The days are longer, our patience is tested, and our energy feels spread thin.

If this sounds like your summer too, you’re not alone. Here are my favorite tips and tricks to keep the kids entertained, manage the snack madness, and even sneak in some much-needed moments of peace.

1. Snack Hack: The "Grab-N-Go" Box

Tired of hearing “I’m hungry” every five minutes? Create a snack system that gives kids independence and gives you a break. Here’s how:

• What You’ll Need: Small bins or boxes (I grabbed mine from Target).

• What I like to Include: Frozen Gogurt, Capri Sun, granola bar, Mama Chia pouch, a piece of fruit (apple or banana), cookies, and an Uncrustable.

• The Rule: No asking for food until your box is empty.

This hack not only cuts down on snack-time interruptions but also empowers kids to manage their own snacks for the day.

2. Sidewalk Chalk Obstacle Course

Burning energy is key to a smoother day. A sidewalk chalk obstacle course is my go-to for getting the wiggles out—and the kids love it!

• How It Works: Draw a course on your driveway or sidewalk with challenges like:

  • Pop the Bubbles: Stomp or jump on each bubble.

  • Reach for the Stars: High-five each star.

  • Leapfrog Lily Pads: Hop from one to the next.

  • Walk the Tightrope: Balance along a straight line.

  • Bear Crawl & Crab Walk: Add animal-themed challenges.

Let the kids help design the course for extra fun. Time them to see if they can beat their best score or add their own creative twists.

3. Are You Someone Who Needs Structure? Try This Summer Schedule!

If your family thrives on structure, build a weekly rhythm with themed days. Here’s a sample schedule to keep the kids engaged and you sane:

• Make-It Monday: Dive into crafts like nature crowns, cloud playdough, or painted rocks.

• Take-a-Trip Tuesday: Explore a local spot! Hint hint: Join us for Stroller Strides at Conner Prairie every Tuesday!

• Water Wednesday: Cool off at a new splash pad, turn on the sprinkler, or set up the kiddie pool.

• Learn-It Thursday: Explore science with experiments like painting ice or building critical thinking puzzles.

• Foodie Friday: Whip up homemade ice cream or set up sensory play with food items.

This simple routine helps create predictability while allowing for plenty of fun and flexibility.

4. Explore Local Gems

Summer is the perfect time to take advantage of local spots for adventure and fun. These are a few of my favorite places to visit:

• Spencer Farms: Marvel at the sunflowers in July and grab some fresh produce while you’re there.

• Newfields: Enjoy the art and gardens—for free on the first Thursday of the month!

• Creek Stomping at Flowing Well Park or Hague Rd Nature Haven: A cool, refreshing way to spend a sunny afternoon.

• FREE movies at the Monon Plaza. Grab dinner and drink!

• Indianapolis Indians Baseball Games: Nothing beats the fun of a ballgame on a summer evening.

5. Screen Time Trade-Offs

Screen time is a lifesaver, but the mom guilt is real. Instead of fighting it, use it as a motivator: more chores = more screen time.

• Chore List Ideas:

  • Pull weeds.

  • Wipe down windows.

  • Sweep the patio.

  • Match socks or fold towels.

You’d be surprised how much kids will accomplish when they know their tablet time is on the line! Bonus: a cleaner house for you.

A Final Thought

It’s okay if your summer days don’t look like Pinterest-perfect moments. There will be extra screen time, sibling arguments, and days when you count the minutes until bedtime. And guess what? That’s okay.

Summer is about finding the balance between fun and sanity—for your kids and for you. You’re doing an amazing job, mama, and your kids will remember the love, effort, and creativity you put into these days more than anything else.

Here’s to a summer full of manageable chaos and unforgettable moments. We’ve got this!

What are your go-to summer survival tips? Share them with us in the comments or at our next FIT4MOM class! We’d love to hear from you.