Summertime Can be Fun, But Full of Challenges
It is no secret that we love summertime in this amazing city, and surrounding suburbs. Suddenly the possibilities of what to do with our families increase tenfold. It’s also just generally pleasant to be able to run out the door without putting a million layers on! However, the structure of the school year for many parents is a tough thing to let go of. Without the daily rhythms that school and after-school activities provide, it’s essential to establish a summer routine that gives you a sense of balance. Ideally, balancing relaxation, routine, and fun activities.
The Benefits of Creating a Summer Routine
As a therapist in the Chicago area that works with moms, I have seen these challenges firsthand. In this blog, I am going to list a few benefits of creating a summer routine and provide practical tips to help you and your family make the most of your summer break. Then Ill give a few suggestions of activities to add to your calendar in Chicago.
Consider your Priorities and Set Goals:
Think about what you want to prioritize this summer and then set goals according to those larger ideas. I encourage parents to think about priorities for the family and kids as well as personal priorities. For example, if you want to prioritize quality time with the kids it is also important to consider what YOU need and want during family time as well. Prioritize these goals and break them down into manageable tasks. This will provide a sense of direction and purpose to your summer routine.
Set a Schedule (Keep it flexible though):
Setting a schedule is regulating for a lot of people, especially children. When our kids feel a sense of what to expect in a day, they tend to feel less tension and uncertainty about what lies ahead each morning. It’s still important, for your sanity, to keep things flexible. So, start by designating specific blocks of time for activities such as quiet time, reading, outdoor play, creative projects, and camp/ planned activities. However, remember to keep the schedule flexible to allow for spontaneous adventures and relaxation (see ideas for what to do in the area after this list).
Incorporate Learning and Enrichment:
Summer break doesn’t have to mean learning stops. Most children are naturally curious and love to explore. That’s why I recommend encouraging your children to engage in educational activities that align with their interests. Visit the local library to stock up on books, join summer reading programs, or explore online educational platforms. Consider planning visits to museums, science centers, or historical sites to make learning fun and interactive. Sometimes, it’s as easy as walking around the backyard or a local forest preserve and looking up the trees, plants, insects, and animals you find.
Encourage Physical Activity:
After being stuck indoors all winter, summer is the perfect time to enjoy outdoor activities and keep the whole family active. This is also helpful for passing time as a parent and getting some extra Vitamin D while watching your kids play. I recommend planning regular outings to parks, going for family hikes, organizing backyard games, or setting up a water table in the backyard or sprinkler/splash pad on warmer days. If it’s feasible, summer sports camps or swimming lessons also promote physical fitness and provide kids with new experiences. This will also give you a little downtime to tackle your personal goals over the summer months or just to rest for a minute!
Embrace Mindfulness and Relaxation as Much as Possible:
This is where balance comes in. Amidst the excitement and busyness of summer, it’s essential to find moments to unwind and rest or relax. I generally recommend incorporating mindfulness activities into your routine, such as yoga or meditation, or using a mindfulness app for daily practice. Create a cozy reading corner where you and your children can unwind with their favorite books and have that quiet time structured into their day. Encourage downtime for everyone to recharge and reflect.
Encourage Creative Play and Projects:
Summer break is an excellent opportunity for your children to explore their creativity and pursue artistic endeavors. Set up an art station with various art supplies, encourage imaginative play, or enroll them in art classes or workshops (again only if that is feasible). Allow time for unstructured play and let their creativity flourish. There is a lot of benefit to allowing kids to get messy with paints, play-doh or even just get a big piece of paper out and mess-free markers! They will love the independence and it may keep them occupied for a while.
Maintain Consistency and Flexibility:
While routine provides structure, remember that summer break is also a time for spontaneity and flexibility. Be open to adjusting your schedule as needed to accommodate family outings, vacations, or special events. Strike a balance between consistency and work toward embracing the unexpected.
What Can I Do With My Kids in the Western Suburbs of Chicago
Discover Nature at Morton Arboretum:
Located in Lisle, the Morton Arboretum is a haven of natural beauty and outdoor exploration. Take your kids on a scenic hike through the lush forest trails, participate in hands-on activities at the Children’s Garden, or embark on a nature-themed scavenger hunt. It’s an awesome place to go on a solo hike or family outing.
Enjoy Water Fun at Centennial Beach or a Park District Pool Nearby:
Beat the summer heat by taking a trip to Centennial Beach in Naperville. This historic outdoor swimming facility features a beautiful sandy beach, designated swimming areas, water slides, and a children’s large splash, shallow end area. Also, don’t forget to check out your local park district for their pool pass options. Some even offer reciprocal residency so you can get a better rate for another community pool!
Visit Cosley Zoo:
Nestled in Wheaton, Cosley Zoo provides a fantastic opportunity for your children to get up close and personal with a variety of animals. Explore the exhibits showcasing native Illinois wildlife, including red foxes, white-tailed deer, and adorable farm animals. The zoo also offers educational programs, animal encounters, and nature-themed events throughout the summer.
Explore Cantigny Park:
Cantigny Park, located in Wheaton, offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, history, and family-friendly activities. Stroll through the stunning gardens, explore the historic mansion, and let your children release their energy at the playgrounds. The park also features picnic areas, hiking trails, and an outdoor tank park that military history enthusiasts will love.
Splash into Fun at Raging Waves Waterpark:
For an exhilarating water adventure, head to Raging Waves Waterpark in Yorkville. This expansive waterpark features thrilling water slides, lazy rivers, wave pools, and interactive water play areas. Spend a day zooming down water slides with your kids or relaxing in the sun while they explore the kid-friendly areas.
Visit Brookfield Zoo:
While technically located just outside the western suburbs, Brookfield Zoo is definitely worth the short trip. This renowned zoo offers a diverse collection of animals from around the world. Explore the exhibits, attend educational animal encounters, and enjoy special events throughout the summer. Don’t forget to check out the Dolphin Show and the Tropic World Rainforest exhibit. There’s so much for littles and bigger kiddos as well.
City of Chicago Outings:
Explore Chicago’s Parks:
Chicago boasts an array of beautiful parks that provide the perfect backdrop for family outings. Millennium Park, with its iconic Cloud Gate sculpture (also known as “The Bean”), is a must-visit spot for capturing unique family photos. Grant Park offers stunning lakefront views and hosts various events, including concerts and festivals. Lincoln Park, with its zoo and nature trails, is a fantastic destination for a day of outdoor exploration.
Visit Kid-Friendly Museums:
Chicago is renowned for its world-class museums, many of which offer engaging exhibits for children. The Museum of Science and Industry, with its interactive displays and hands-on experiments, will undoubtedly spark your child’s curiosity. The Shedd Aquarium is another fantastic choice, where kids can marvel at marine life and even witness live dolphin and penguin shows. The Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum is a hidden gem that provides educational experiences focused on local wildlife and natural habitats.
Splash in Water Parks:
Beat the summer heat by visiting one of Chicago’s fantastic water parks. The Maggie Daley Park Play Garden features an innovative water feature, perfect for children of all ages. The Crown Fountain at Millennium Park offers an opportunity for your little ones to splash around in shallow water while enjoying the mesmerizing digital art display. For a more extensive water park experience, venture out to Six Flags Hurricane Harbor in nearby Gurnee for thrilling slides, wave pools, and lazy rivers.
Enjoy Lakefront Activities:
Chicago’s stunning Lake Michigan shoreline offers endless opportunities for family fun. Spend a day at one of the many public beaches, such as North Avenue Beach or Montrose Beach, where your children can build sandcastles, play beach volleyball, or take a refreshing swim. Consider renting bicycles or rollerblades and cruising along the Lakefront Trail, taking in the picturesque views of the city skyline.
Discover Nature in Botanic Gardens:
Escape the bustling city and immerse yourself in the tranquility of the Chicago Botanic Garden. Located in Glencoe, just north of the city, this expansive garden offers a variety of themed gardens, walking trails, and beautiful landscapes. Engage your children with the hands-on activities in the Children’s Garden, or participate in one of the many educational programs designed for families.
Online Therapy for Moms in Chicago IL and Wisconsin!
We are currently taking clients and encourage you to reach out for your free 15-minute phone consultation to see if this could be a beneficial resource for you. This is another way to feel like you are not alone and to experience a validating and productive conversation surrounding your role as a mother and human being!
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Other Services:
Limitless Counseling Center has a variety of specialty services catered to your needs. In addition to our online OCD therapy in Chicago, IL, we also provide online therapy for panic disorder, generalized anxiety, social anxiety or phobias as well as perinatal and postpartum OCD and anxiety.
