The summer holidays are here. Longer days, warmer weather, and for many of us, the rare chance to pause the usual routine. But it can be difficult to properly switch off.
We’re so used to juggling work and daily demands that when the time is finally ours, we don’t always know how to spend it. But what if we choose presence over perfection? What if we decide to be with our families, not just around them?
Be Present with Your Family
Sometimes we need a reminder to stop, pause and breathe. This gives us the chance to take stock and enjoy the people closest to us – to laugh, play, talk and rebuild relationships. That applies to friends and family and especially children. It’s easy to forget how quickly children grow. One moment you’re wiping ice cream off their face, and the next, they’re out in the world doing their own thing. The time we have is precious and fleeting.
So take the opportunity to be fully present. Step away from the laptop. Put your phone down. Let this be a time where conversations happen eye to eye, not screen to screen. And encourage your young people to unglue themselves from their devices too – they might grumble at first, but they’ll soon find they’re enjoying their time much more.
Rebuild and Reconnect
If family life has felt rushed or distant lately – and you’re definitely not alone –, this is your chance to start fresh. Rebuilding relationships doesn’t need grand gestures, just shared moments. Go on walks together. Cook as a team. Sit down and savour an unhurried breakfast.
When it comes to planning activities and days out, encourage your children to be part of the planning. Ask them what they’d love to do. When they feel included, they’re more likely to engage and less likely to resist that gentle nudge away from their devices.
Make Space for Play – for Everyone
Not every day needs to be structured or perfect. In fact, the best memories are often made when things are a bit messy, a bit spontaneous and a lot of fun.
You could try some of these simple but memorable ways to bring the family together:
- Family Challenge Day – pick an activity that gets everyone out of their comfort zone. Try tie-dye t-shirts, bake-your-own pizzas, or a homemade obstacle course.
- Fun Days Out – head to the local pool for Splash Time or a big park adventure. It doesn’t need to be expensive and high-octane. Let the kids lead for a change.
- Creative Time Together – paint, build, bake, play music – whatever brings out the creativity and laughter in you all.
- Just Be – have days with no agenda. Let the children be children. Let the moments unfold.
Let Go of the Extreme Planning
You don’t need to plan every detail to make the holidays magical. Sometimes, less structure means more space for real connection. Try letting go – even if it’s just a little – and see what surprises unfold.
Being present means choosing what matters, showing up with intention and nurturing those relationships that give life meaning.
So this summer, make that effort to be present. Say yes to the slow moments. Let go of perfect plans. Be with your people.
Because before you know it, they’ll be grown and gone, and you’ll be so glad you took the time to enjoy them.