Every summer break, I tell myself the same thing: This year, we’re going to make the most of it. I picture slow breakfasts on the patio, lazy afternoons with a book, and fun family outings. But here’s the truth — if I don’t plan even a little, the days just blur together, and suddenly it’s mid-August and we haven’t done half the things we wanted.
That’s why I started using a weekly planner during summer holidays. It’s not about stuffing every minute with activities — summer should still feel free. For me, it’s more like having a gentle guide so I’m not waking up every morning wondering, “Okay… now what?”
1. Start With the Non-Negotiables
On Sunday night, I grab my planner (or just a notebook) and jot down the big, fixed things for the week:
- Family birthdays
- Pre-booked trips or activities
- Any work calls or deadlines (if you’re juggling both)
Once those are on paper, it’s easier to see where the free pockets are — and that’s where the fun goes.
2. Give Each Day a Loose Theme
This is a game-changer. Instead of deciding from scratch every day, I give each one a “vibe.” For example:
- Monday: Home day — crafts, baking, movies
- Tuesday: Adventure — park, beach, hike
- Wednesday: Friends & family time
- Thursday: Learning — museum, cooking something new
- Friday: Big day out — amusement park, water park
- Weekend: Flexible — BBQ, rest, last-minute trips
It’s not a strict rule, just a gentle nudge when I’m planning.
3. Keep Mornings Slow
One of the best parts of summer is not rushing. I keep mornings light: breakfast, a quick tidy-up, maybe a walk before the heat kicks in. Then we decide if it’s a “let’s go out” day or a “stay in and chill” day.
4. Plan the Fun… but Leave Space for Nothing
I used to think summer had to be packed with activities, but I’ve learned that lazy days are gold. Some of my favorite memories are doing absolutely nothing — just sitting in the garden with popsicles or having an impromptu picnic on the living room floor.
So yes, I actually block out “nothing time” in my planner.
5. Keep a Few Routines Going
Even in summer, small routines save my sanity. I stick to:
- A 10-minute tidy before bed
- A grocery day
- One laundry day (and stick to it!)
- A loose meal plan so we’re not constantly thinking about food
These little anchors mean less stress and more space for fun.
6. Let the Kids Have a Say
On Sunday evening, I ask the kids, “What’s one thing you want to do this week?” It could be a water balloon fight, a trip to the pool, or baking cookies. When they help plan, they’re way less likely to complain about being bored.
7. Keep It Where Everyone Can See It
Our summer plan lives on the fridge. You could use a whiteboard, a cute printable, or just a piece of paper. The point is — no one’s asking, “Wait, what’s happening today?” every five minutes.
Why This Works
It’s not about being hyper-organized. It’s about making sure we fit in the things that matter to us — while still leaving room for the magic of summer. A little structure, a lot of freedom.
Final Thought: Your weekly summer planner isn’t a rulebook. If it rains or you’re just not feeling it, switch things up. The plan is there to help you, not control you.
So grab a notebook, sketch out your week, and let summer be both fun and stress-free.
