Summertime often comes with the pressure or excitement to always have something to do. We gear up for vacations, cookouts and events galore without much thought. While these are all fun ways to bond and make memories, rest is just as important during this time. In a world where busyness is normal, even for kids, it’s important to teach our families that relaxation isn’t lazy but necessary. It’s the art of slowing down to reconnect with ourselves, our surroundings and each other.

Redefining What “Rest” Looks Like

Throw out the idea that resting means doing absolutely nothing. Rest can be active, creative, spiritual or playful. It’s less about the activity and more about the intention. Is it recharging your spirit, easing stress or bringing your family closer together? If so, it counts as rest!

Here are a few ways to incorporate relaxation into your summer rhythm:

Designate “Do Nothing” Time

Set aside a chunk of the day or week where there’s no agenda. The goal is to just be. Take a bath, lie in the grass, soak in meditation or instrumental music, or doodle with no expectations. Encourage your family to spend this time in their own way. This teaches kids that unstructured time is allowed and essential.

Create a Summer Wind-Down Routine

While the kids are out for the summer, you can still encourage a routine to keep their biological clock regulated, but you can make it fun and relaxing. After dinner or before bed, light a candle, dim the lights and cue the calm vibes. Maybe it’s a family gratitude, yoga or journaling session with quiet music in the background. The goal is to help everyone transition from “go mode” to “slow mode” together.

Rest Outside

Enjoying nature is one of the best ways to rejuvenate. Have a quiet picnic in the backyard or at the park with no screens, and listen to the rolling sounds of your environment. You’ll likely find entertainment in the mix of the natural habitat with our modern world. The goal is to breathe in fresh air while tuning into nature’s pace as a gentle reminder that you’re allowed to slow down.

Encourage Mindless Creative Rest

Relaxation can be hands-on, too. Try painting, making a decorative jar or doing a simple puzzle. Let it be about enjoyment, not perfection. Quiet, creative play is a beautiful way to release stress and feel present. The goal is to have fun in the process and be pleased with whatever the end result may be. 

Kids learn how to rest when they see trusted grown-ups doing it. Let them catch you taking breaks without guilt. When they see you setting boundaries, saying “no” to overscheduling and valuing downtime, they learn to do the same. Rest assured, you don’t need plane tickets or packed itineraries to have a joyful summer. Sometimes, the best memories are made in the quiet moments – feet up and nowhere else to be.