Summer always seems to move fast. It’s such a memorable time for kids, and I wanted to put together a few ideas to help us be intentional with the time we have. A few simple rhythms can make the season feel slower, fuller, and more memorable for your family.

Here are a few simple ideas to enjoy the summer together.

Watch a Summer Series Together

Pick a fun, family-friendly series and slowly work through it over the summer. It gives everyone something to look forward to each week.

A few ideas:

• Start the Star Wars movies in chronological order
• Go through the The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe series
• Watch Ryan Trahan’s “America’s Top 10” or his “50 States in 50 Days” series for lighthearted family fun and adventure inspiration. We’ve enjoyed watching him as a family, and appreciate that his content stays fun and family friendly.

Cook One Meal Together Each Week

Summer usually gives a little more margin, and cooking together is such an easy way to slow down and connect.

Let kids help:

• measure ingredients
• crack eggs
• stir sauces
• grill with supervision
• plan the menu

It may take longer, but those are often the moments kids remember most.

Read a Morning Devotion Together

Even five quiet minutes in the morning can shape the tone of the whole day.

We’ve especially loved Abundant Life 365 by Ashley and Carlie Terradez, along with 52 Things Jesus Did For You by Clint Byars. Both are great for simple family discipleship conversations.

We also have a Kid's Devotion called 

A Kid's Devotion - For We Walk By Faith, And Not By Sight

It's a 10-day devotion designed to help children build a real relationship with God. Each day includes a scripture to memorize and a Bible story to explore, written in a way that kids can understand and enjoy, whether reading alone or with a parent. Go through it in 10 days or take your time, and go through 1-2 a week. There are no rules!

Try a New Board Game

Board games are one of the easiest ways to create connection without screens.

A few family favorites:

• Chinese Checkers
• Catan
• Taco Cat Goat Cheese Pizza
• Uno
• Learn how to play a new card game together with a simple deck of playing cards

A Few Simple Outdoor Activities

You do not always need a big vacation to make summer feel special.

Try:

• backyard water balloon fights
• evening walks after dinner
• sidewalk chalk art competitions
• family bike rides
• local nature trails
• roasting marshmallows outside
• family movie night outside
• catching lightning bugs at dusk

Sometimes the smallest traditions become the ones your kids remember forever.