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Here’s What Made It Onto My “Lazy Summer Parent” Bucket List

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Here’s What Made It Onto My “Lazy Summer Parent” Bucket List — Family
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Should We Plan or Just Go With the Flow?

Should We Plan or Just Go With the Flow?
Chelsey Tobiason, a writer for Motherly, offers a fresh take that swaps stress for calm. It might be worth considering her perspective—it could help us relax a bit about summer commitments:

“I’m aiming for a slow, peaceful summer without big ambitions or obligations—no rushing, no stress. I call myself a ‘lazy summer parent,’ but ‘lazy’ often gets a bad rap, implying a lack of effort or movement. When I say it, I mean unplanned, spontaneous moments filled with contentment and calm. For me, laziness isn’t about not caring what happens; it’s about enjoying the moment and being ready to reshape my day whenever life calls for it.

I often hear other parents say they dread summer. A friend told me she packed her kids’ schedule with camps, and when she asked what we’d do, I simply said, ‘We’ll enjoy the summer!’

Every family is different, and we all need to do what works best for us. I understand not everyone can slow down like we do, but I want my summer to be about savoring everyday joys. We might not travel far or have wild adventures, but I believe our journey will be amazing all the same.”

I’m Saying “Yes” This Summer

I’m Saying “Yes” This Summer
Most weekdays, I spend a lot of time saying no to my kids—and usually for good reasons. The school year doesn’t leave much room for all their fun, creative ideas, even though they’re great. But summer? Summer, I’m the “yes” mom.

I want to give my kids more freedom to explore the world. If they want to wade knee-deep in a creek, visit a new park, or make ice cream at home, I say: Why not? As a summer mom, I’m free from the rules that run from September to June, and our days are full of fresh adventures.

I’m Going to Be Lazy—Yes, Even as a Mom!

I’m Going to Be Lazy—Yes, Even as a Mom!
Remember those mornings when you could sleep in until the sun rose, without anyone bothering you? Those memories are faint for me now, but this summer will be different. Summer gives us a chance to relive that feeling. No tight schedules, no early school starts, no frantic snack prep. Evenings stretch longer, and mornings can begin slowly and leisurely—just how I like it!

Finally, there’s time to make blueberry-eyed, banana-nosed pancakes or avocado toast with roasted tomatoes. My kids can eat slowly and pause to build Lego castles or check out what the neighbor picked from her garden.

Speaking of Gardens

Speaking of Gardens
I know that by starting my own kitchen garden, I’ve officially become a mom—but honestly, it’s a copied model I’m totally happy with. Nothing says “summer is here” like watering and harvesting together, even if it means the kitchen sees less fresh produce. And that’s okay. I want my kids to get dirty and enjoy every moment of gardening. We watch the plants grow and savor the fresh fruits of our labor.

We Picnic as Much as Possible

We Picnic as Much as Possible
There’s something magical about picnics. A big straw basket (reminding me of childhood summers) packed with all kinds of treats… Thanks to its checkered lining, everything inside looks delicious. It’s full of surprises: fresh fruit, tasty sandwiches, veggie sticks, and—let’s be honest—a little bit of chips and cookies.

The picnic basket gives us freedom. I can fill it creatively without spending hours in the kitchen because food tastes better outdoors—even if it’s the same old sandwich. Outside, we focus less on hunger and more on what our hearts want. Maybe we’ll hang out by a lake or build one more tall sandcastle before snacking in the shade.

Trying New Foods

Trying New Foods
I truly believe summer should be about food adventures and tasting new things. I want to stop at every stand, every food truck, and visit every farmer’s market. We don’t have a favorite spot yet, so we really enjoy the thrill of discovery. If that means eating a melting ice cream on a dusty sidewalk, I call that a win.

This is our top five summer bucket list, but it’s flexible. Where we end up each day depends on my three kids’ wishes. Sometimes we might not leave the house at all; other times, we might only come home to sleep.

These months and summers feel especially precious to me—time is limited, and soon my kids will dedicate their free time to their own families. I hope they carry these memories with them! Because I’m a lazy summer parent—and I’m pretty sure I’m not the only one who loves it.

Photos: istockphoto.com
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