Navigating the Mid-Summer Slump: Keeping Kids Engaged When “I’m Bored” Becomes the Anthem

We’re approaching the halfway point of summer, and you know exactly what that means … the slump.

At first, it’s all sunshine and rainbows. The kids are hyped about summer break, you’re feeling like the world’s best parent, and everything seems possible. But then, somewhere between the endless days of “What are we doing today?” and “Can I have a snack?” the excitement starts to fade, and suddenly, you’re living in a real-life version of the movie Groundhog Day. The constant refrain of I’m bored starts to feel like a personal attack.

But fear not, fellow parents! The mid-summer slump is a thing, and while it can feel like you’re stuck in an endless loop of parental exhaustion, it doesn’t have to be a season of chaos. Let’s break it down and make it manageable, shall we?

1. Set Up a Routine, With Flexibility

I touched on this last month, but there’s a reason I’m mentioning it again. The word “routine” might make you groan at this point in the summer (who wants structure when you’re supposed to be chilling?), but hear me out: a little bit of predictability can go a long way. Kids thrive on routine, even during the summer months. The trick is making sure that routine is flexible enough to still feel like summer.

Create a loose schedule that includes a mix of activities. For example:

• Morning: Outdoor play or a fun craft (because, yes, Pinterest does have some ideas that actually work).

• Midday: Quiet time or screen time (we’re not all perfect, and let’s be honest, sometimes we all need a break).

• Afternoon: A field trip, whether it’s a trip to the local park, a pool day, or even just a scavenger hunt in the backyard.

You don’t have to schedule every minute, but giving the kids a framework will help reduce the What do we do now? moments and keep their energy channeled into something more productive than complaining.

2. Embrace the Power of “Screen Time” (Without the Guilt)

Let’s just get this out of the way: Screen time is not the villain here. In fact, sometimes it’s a blessing in disguise. When you’ve run out of creative ideas and everyone’s on the verge of a meltdown, a solid hour of a favorite show, video game, or even educational app can be a lifesaver.

It’s okay to let your kids have a little extra screen time in the summer, especially when it gives you the chance to regroup, enjoy a cup of coffee, or, dare I say it, just exist for a few minutes. If you’re worried about overdoing it, balance it with activities that get them moving, like a dance-off to their favorite playlist or an outdoor scavenger hunt.

3. Incorporate “Creative Boredom” Time

Yep, you read that right, let them be bored! Boredom is actually a wonderful thing. It forces creativity, and believe me, you’ll be amazed at what your kids can come up with when they have to entertain themselves.

Give them a box of old craft supplies, some chalk for the driveway, or a pile of cardboard boxes and watch their imaginations go wild. If they ask, “What do I do with this?” you can say, “Figure it out!” (with a smile, of course). The beauty of this? You get a break, and they get a chance to flex their problem-solving muscles.

4. Plan Mini Adventures That Don’t Feel Like a Lot of Work

Here’s the thing about the mid-summer slump: it’s easy to feel like the days are dragging, but that doesn’t mean you need to plan elaborate getaways to break the monotony. Instead, opt for mini adventures. Think low-stress, easy-to-pull-off outings that give everyone something new to look forward to.

A trip to a new playground, a visit to a farmer’s market, or even an afternoon at the library to pick out new books can inject some fun without making it feel like you’re putting together a full-blown vacation. These outings don’t have to be epic to feel special.

5. Tap Into Your Inner Kid—And Have Fun with Them

Remember when you were a kid and the simplest things were the most fun? It turns out that kids don’t need fancy activities or expensive toys, they just need someone to join them in the fun. So get down on the floor, play that board game for the hundredth time, or challenge them to a race in the backyard.

It’s not about being a perfect parent; it’s about showing your kids that sometimes, it’s okay to let loose and embrace a little silliness. Plus, you might just have fun too (no judgment if you end up winning that race and gloating a little).

6. Switch Up the Routine

By mid-summer, the same old can get stale. So, if you find yourself stuck in a rut, it’s time to mix things up a bit. Try something totally new and out-of-the-box. Have a family water balloon fight, create a family talent show, or even build a fort in the living room and camp inside for a night.

The key here is novelty; kids love new experiences, and you’ll love the break from the usual. Plus, you’ll have something fun to look back on when the “What did we do this summer?” question inevitably comes up.

7. Don’t Forget to Recharge

And finally, parents, let’s be real: You need a break too. Whether it’s an hour to yourself, a date night, or a solo trip to Target (hallelujah!), make sure you’re taking care of yourself. You can’t keep the kids entertained and engaged if you’re running on empty.

Don’t feel guilty about taking a breather. In fact, if you can show your kids that taking care of yourself is important, you’re teaching them an essential lesson in self-care.

Final Thoughts

The mid-summer slump doesn’t have to be a summer disaster. With a bit of creativity, flexibility, and the occasional “I need a minute” moment, you can make it through with your sanity (and your kids) intact. So embrace the quiet moments, get outside, let them be bored, and remember: You’re doing great. Summer might be a marathon, but you’ve got this.

Oh, and when in doubt, just remember: If all else fails, ice cream fixes most problems.