Summer is finally upon us, and I must confess, I find it far more delightful than I did when my kids were younger. Of course, I miss those carefree days of them joyfully splashing around in the sprinkler, creating wonderful memories. However, the exhaustion and messiness that came with it often took a toll on my enjoyment.
There are numerous reasons why summer is so much better now that my children are older:
Reading Together
My kids have reached an age where we can share and discuss books, which is truly rewarding. Gone are the days of reading the same bedtime story over and over. Now, they can immerse themselves in their own books. I cherish those quiet nights when we’re all nestled in our beds, lights on, lost in our stories. The sounds of pages turning, soft yawns, and the flick of their lamps create a serene atmosphere.
Life Lessons
Instead of the endless cycle of diaper changes and nose wiping, I now have the privilege of teaching my daughter how to shave her legs and my son about grooming. They’ve been dressing themselves for a while, but now they seek my input on their choices. We dive into meaningful conversations about relationships, and I feel heard in a way that’s truly fulfilling.
Freedom from the Playground
Thank goodness I no longer have to endure hours at a scorching playground. These days, my kids are off riding bikes with friends, allowing me the luxury of sitting on my porch, reading or checking my phone. Even though they’re out in the neighborhood, I can still hear their joyous laughter echoing through the streets. Plus, they’re getting some much-needed exercise.
Beach Days
My children can now apply their own sunscreen and pack their own beach lunches. They’ve learned to dry off without panicking over sand, and I’m relieved they are strong swimmers. After years of constant vigilance, I can finally relax and enjoy a swim myself without the constant worry of safety.
Sleeping In
One of the best perks is that they sleep in, which means I can too, or I can sneak in a long run before they wake up. I never imagined I’d enjoy running, yet here I am, energized and embracing the early morning for some “me time.”
Late-Night Movie Marathons
We can stay up late watching movies and munching on popcorn they’ve prepared themselves. If I’m too tired, I can simply go to bed and trust that they can handle getting themselves ready for sleep. Often, they’re the ones tucking me in!
But the greatest joy of summer with older kids is simply being with them. The school year is long, filled with activities that keep us busy, and I often miss our time together. Summer allows us to slow down, relax our routines, and embrace a more laid-back lifestyle—sometimes even staying in our pajamas all day. That, to me, is the essence of a perfect summer.
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Summary
As my children grow older, summer has transformed into a more enjoyable experience filled with shared activities, meaningful conversations, and a sense of independence for both them and me. From quiet reading sessions to late-night movie marathons, these moments allow us to bond in a way that the younger years simply couldn’t offer.