From The Confessional: The Good News — Summer’s Here! The Bad News — Summer’s Here!

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Hooray, summer has arrived! That means we can finally take a breather from arguing with our kids about their homework, loosen the reins on bedtime, and enjoy some much-needed sunshine after a year of hibernation.

However, summer also brings its own set of challenges. Our kids are around us all day, often with nothing to occupy their time. Do we sign them up for those overly pricey camps that stretch our budget? Are those camps even safe this year? Should we feel guilty about their screen time? Or should we just embrace the chaos and appreciate the rare moments of peace?

Then there’s the humidity, the bugs, and the constant squabbles over sunscreen and treats like the last popsicle, leaving us all feeling ready for a break from summer by the end of June.

Confessions from Parents

Here are some candid confessions from other parents who are excited about the summer—because it can be fun!—but also a bit overwhelmed.

  • Today I realized that summer break is just around the corner, and there are still no activities lined up in my area. I’m going to be stuck at home working while keeping my daughter entertained…again. The frustration has me on the verge of tears.
  • Confession #25834122: I desperately wish my partner was back at the office this summer.
  • Confession #25836615: Last summer, all I wanted was normalcy. This summer, I just want some peace and quiet.
  • Confession #25836017: My kids are anxious about the new no-mask rules. They’re old enough to be scared of COVID and too young to be vaccinated yet. Here’s to another summer of pandemic worries.
  • Confession #25832585: Excited to dive into pandemic summer #2! Many parents are still working from home, and kids’ activities haven’t fully reopened. Now we all have to figure out what to do with our kids for the next few months.
  • Confession #25835866: My son was kicked out of summer camp again. I thought we had moved past this. I’m feeling angry and embarrassed. Why can’t we figure this out?
  • Confession #25834132: We’re trying to manage three separate weeks of sleepaway camp for our kids. How does anyone afford this? Some kids go to camp all summer long!
  • Confession #25385167: I just realized I’m picking up my daughter from church camp wearing a shirt that says, “A clean beaver gets more wood.” But it’s too hot for a sweater!
  • Confession #25225898: I decided not to enroll my kids in camps thinking we could just relax and enjoy summer. I won’t make that mistake again.

And then there’s the pressure of camp—whether it’s within budget, if it’s COVID-safe, and the embarrassment of showing up in a silly shirt. (It’s all fine; Jesus loves beavers.)

The truth is, many moms find summer to be quite challenging. The expectation to be a fun coordinator can be exhausting. You want to cherish these fleeting summers while your kids are young, but some days, you just wish for the school year to return.

I have filled our summer calendar with activities to distract myself from my own struggles. Confessional #25835185: I have anxiety about summer. After dealing with a serious tickborne illness in the past, skin cancer risks, and worrying about safety with bug spray and sunscreen, I just want to relax.

Confessional #25834874: My office won’t reopen until late August. I can’t believe I’ll spend another summer working from home with my spouse and three teenage stepdaughters. On one hand, they might wreak havoc if we go out; on the other, my anxiety spikes with them around.

And for many, summer can amplify mental health struggles. My fondest memories stem from summer, yet I often dread this season.

In the end, many of us realize we have a love-hate relationship with summer. We cherish late-night movies, swimming, and beach days while also feeling overwhelmed by cranky kids, the effort it takes to go to the beach, and the heat the moment we step outside.

But summer is here for the next few months, like it or not. Hopefully, this summer will be a bit brighter than the last. If you’re vaccinated and ready for fun, things are looking positive!

For More Insights

For more insights, check out this post on home insemination and visit Make a Mom for essential tips about conception. Additionally, NHS offers excellent resources regarding pregnancy and home insemination.

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Summary

Summer brings both excitement and challenges for parents. While it offers a break from routines and a chance to enjoy outdoor activities, it also means managing kids’ boredom, safety concerns, and the pressure of planning fun. Many parents find themselves feeling overwhelmed yet nostalgic, wanting to make the most of these fleeting moments.

Keyphrase: Summer parenting challenges

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