School’s Out, Summer’s In
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There’s a certain kind of freedom that comes with the start of summer. Even in a homeschool household, where we set our own schedules, there’s still a mental shift when the last lesson is wrapped up and the books are stacked away. The backpack, yes, we still have one, gets tossed into the corner, not needed for a while. It’s become more symbol than necessity, representing a break from routine and a pause from structure.
Our summer rhythm isn’t quiet, just different. Soccer becomes the centerpiece. The kids swap out notebooks for shin guards, and our days are suddenly filled with practices, camps, and the never-ending hunt for a clean pair of socks. Some days it’s an early morning scramble to get out the door. Others it’s just backyard drills, cones scattered across the lawn, and a few water bottles lying in the grass.
In between soccer sessions, we carve out space for vacation. Maybe it’s a weekend road trip, maybe just a few slow days at home with no agenda. The pace shifts. Meals feel a little more relaxed. The pressure to get things done takes a back seat to just being together. It’s not about big trips, really. It’s about small, quiet moments like late-night stargazing, extra marshmallows in the s’mores, and staying up past bedtime just because we can.
One thing we hold onto, though, is reading. Summer reading isn’t about assignments or incentives. It’s about stories. Curling up on the couch with a good book while the fan hums in the background. Sharing a chapter out loud before bed. Giving our kids the space to let their imaginations wander without screens or structure. Books keep our minds engaged when everything else slows down, and honestly, it’s one of the few times I get to read for myself too.
Parenting through summer has its challenges. It’s not all peaceful evenings and popsicles. There are moments of chaos, endless laundry, and the occasional sibling squabble over who gets the last freeze pop. But underneath it all, there’s something special about this season. It gives us room to connect, to breathe, and to enjoy being a family without the pressure of deadlines or tests.
School’s out. Summer’s in. And backpacks? They can stay right where they are, out of sight and out of mind.