As the school year wraps up, a familiar question arises: What will we do with the kids this summer? Last year, I found myself grappling with this dilemma, dreading the role of the summer activities coordinator, responsible for a jam-packed schedule of enriching experiences. Sure, there would be meticulously planned neighborhood water parties, mindful yoga sessions, and afternoons filled with Pinterest-inspired crafts. But honestly, by June, I was just exhausted from the relentless pace of the school year.
The pressure to provide extravagant summer experiences often overshadows the joy of simply enjoying the season. If your child isn’t attending a multi-discipline camp that combines STEM, sports, and arts, it can feel as if you’re failing them. But this summer, let’s throw out those high expectations and embrace a simpler, more nostalgic approach—a genuine 1970s summer.
- Roller Skating Marathon: Spend an entire day at the local roller rink, taking breaks only to sip on a Shasta and pop a piece of Fruit Stripe gum. Create your own playlist filled with the classics—trust me, you can skate to nothing but Donna Summer all day long.
- Creek Adventures: Instead of a fancy pool, ride your bikes to the local creek for a swim. No need for extensive water quality checks or a cooler stuffed with overpriced snacks. Just some tadpoles and lizards will do for today’s fun.
- Play with Real Toys: Dust off the hula hoop, frisbee, jump rope, and pogo stick—no batteries required. Remember, not every moment needs to be documented; kids don’t need an audience to enjoy their playtime.
- Streetlight Curfew: When the streetlights come on, it’s time to head home. No GPS tracking or constant texting—just keep an eye on the lights and return when they illuminate.
- Embrace the Dirt: Let the kids get messy! I expect them to come home completely filthy. If there’s a ring of dirt around their necks, they’ve had a successful day.
- Cooking with Betty: Dinner can be a fun learning experience too. Dust off the Betty Crocker Junior Cookbook and let the kids whip up something special—chicken tetrazzini, anyone?
- Road Trip Fun: Leave the tablets at home. Instead, play the license plate game and bring along a paperback book. There’s something magical about the smell of old pages!
- Outdoor Bathing: For the next couple of months, bath time will happen outside during summer showers. Just stand under the rain and enjoy the lather—no tub required!
- Lemonade Stand: Set up a classic lemonade stand. I’m not building it or creating any social media buzz, but I will drive you to the store for supplies. If anyone asks for a business permit, just send them my way—I know a few folks in local government!
- Unstructured Time: Finally, let’s embrace the art of doing nothing. No plans, no schedules—just free time to explore and enjoy the wonders of summer.
This summer, let’s recapture that 1970s spirit and allow our kids to be kids again. Because soon enough, they will be grown-ups, and they’ll wish for the simple days of summer.
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Summary
This article outlines ten nostalgic ways to give your children a 1970s-style summer, emphasizing outdoor play, creativity, and unstructured time. By stepping back from over-scheduling and embracing simpler joys, families can create lasting memories reminiscent of a carefree era.