In this episode, Karen and Emily share practical tips for creating a fun and memorable summer for your family. From nostalgic ice cream runs and imaginative backyard play to volunteering and fostering independence in kids, they offer ideas for keeping summer simple and enjoyable. Don’t miss Karen’s nuggets on balancing work with quality family time! Share your own summer ideas with us on YouTube, Spotify, Apple, or Instagram and join the conversation! 

Episode Recap:

3:20 - Karen shares her summer plans
5:51 - Karen was a laid back mom, so summer was a always fun for her
7:16 - Question 1: I'm a working mom and summer feels frantic for me, help! 
11:04 - Question 2: I’m dreading hearing “I’m bored!”  Any suggestions?
17:48 - Emily offers ideas: do your research and prepare ahead of time for a fun summer! 

23:56 - Question 3: What are your thoughts on summer jobs for teens?

26:58 - Question 4: How do I manage working from home with my kids this summer? 

30:00 - Remember, you are not the cruise director for your kids’ lives! 

Questions for Discussion:

1. What are some of your favorite summer memories or traditions from your own childhood? Can you recreate or adapt any of them for your family today?
2. Do you have to balance work responsibilities with family time during the summer? How have you planned ahead or what can you implement that you heard in this episode?
3. How do you promote creativity and independence in your children during summer? Are you hovering too much or do you allow your kids to get bored?! 
4. Reflect on the idea of not being the "cruise director" for your children's lives. How do you manage expectations and foster self-sufficiency in your kids?

Resources:

• Pre-order Karen’s all-new Survival Guide to Motherhood today! Orders ship July 30th: https://amzn.to/3Vr7LlD
• Want to bring Karen to speak in your community? Reach out: https://www.birdsonwiremoms.com/invite 
• Connect with Birds on a Wire Moms on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/birdsonawiremoms  and Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/birdsonawiremoms