Using Summer as a Reset for Your Family: A Counselor's Perspective
Summer is a wonderful time of the year when families can take a break from their usual routines, relax and create lasting memories. It's also an ideal opportunity to hit the reset button, shift unhelpful patterns, and strengthen family bonds. Maybe you and your family started off strong, but that initial energy is waning; Maybe you fell into the rush of summer without a plan; or Maybe you’re at the point that you’re just trying to get through it. As a professional counselor and mother of four, I understand. Regardless of where you are currently with summer and your family, you can still benefit from this Summer season and the opportunities it offers. Summer can still provide the needed chance to reflect, reset, and rejuvenate, promoting overall well-being for self and family. Below are some insights and practical tips on how to use summer as a reset for your family.
1. Reflect and Set Intentions
As we are half way through the summer, take a moment as a family to reflect: what has each person enjoyed? What do people want more of? Less of? What needs to be changed up? Encourage each family member to share their thoughts, experiences, and feelings. This reflective process helps everyone acknowledge both the joys and challenges faced. Once reflections are shared, set intentions for the rest of summer as a family. These intentions can be anything from using some of the extra time together for family meetings, choosing activities to add fun and quality time, or intentionally planning activities that strengthen bonds and positive interactions.
2. Disconnect from Technology
In our digitally-driven world, it's crucial to create space for authentic connections. Technology can be a huge distraction. Designate technology-free zones or periods during the day when devices are put away. Us the time to encourage outdoor activities, board games, or meaningful conversations. By disconnecting from screens, you provide an opportunity for deeper creativity, active listening, and genuine engagement.
3. Create a Flexible Routine
While summer offers a break from rigid schedules, establishing a flexible routine can provide a sense of structure and security for the whole family. Without a flexible routine, we can all settle into frustration, conflict, anxiety and often end up settling for activities that are easy in the moment but not helpful in the long run. Together, design or shift the weekly schedule so that it incorporates both individual and family activities. Include time for relaxation, hobbies, exercise, and shared meals. Flexibility allows for spontaneous adventures and encourages participation from each family member.
4. Engage in Shared Experiences
Shared experiences create lasting memories and strengthen family bonds for the whole year. Plan activities that cater to everyone's interests. Whether it's a family hike, a day at the pool, or a creative project, ensure each family member has a say in the decision-making process. My family has taken up two traditions that have been meaningful: a Summer bucket list and a Yes-Day where the kids choose all the activities. These shared experiences foster a sense of togetherness and joy and allow each person to feel valued and heard.
5. Practice Mindful Communication
The relaxed nature of Summer provides ample opportunities to step back from normal patterns of communication, relax, be patient, listen, and improve communication within the family unit. Encourage active listening, empathy, and validation during conversations. Implement regular family meetings where everyone has a chance to share their thoughts, concerns, and ideas. Set some goals for how this positive communication can be practiced. Respectful and mindful communication helps build trust, strengthens relationships, and promotes a positive family dynamic now and for the rest of the year.
6. Prioritize Self-Care
Summer is not just about focusing on family connections; it's also essential to prioritize individual self-care – which in the end IS family-care. Help each family member to engage in activities that promote their personal well-being: hobbies, exercise, healthy eating, reading, prayer and meditation, or simply spending quiet time alone. When each family member takes care of their own needs, they are better equipped to contribute positively and peacefully to the whole family.
7. Embrace the Outdoors
Summer offers an abundance of outdoor opportunities. Take advantage of this by planning regular outings in nature. Engage in activities such as picnics, bike rides, gardening, or camping. Being in nature promotes relaxation, reduces stress, encourages physical activity, and many more benefits. It also provides an opportunity for everyone to unplug and reconnect with the natural world.
Summer presents a unique chance to reset and strengthen your family bonds. By reflecting and planning, disconnecting from technology, creating a flexible routine, engaging in shared experiences, practicing mindful communication, prioritizing self-care, and embracing the outdoors, you can make the most of this season. As a professional counselor, any chance we can take to pause, plan, and pursue wellness is helpful. Summer is the season built into our year to do just that. Be well.
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