“Go outside and play until the sun sets.” This was the mantra of my childhood summers, growing up in the ’80s and ’90s with my siblings. Now that I’m a mom, I completely understand my own mother’s parenting style.
Back then, electronic distractions were minimal; there were no smartphones or video games like Fortnite. Our entertainment consisted of three fuzzy television channels, an original Nintendo console, and just two games: Mario Brothers and Duck Hunt. With three kids and only one wired controller, our gaming sessions were quite limited.
Without electronic babysitters, my siblings and I had only two choices: play inside or venture outside. And believe me, my mom wasn’t about to let us lounge indoors for the entire summer.
After breakfast, we would race outside to make mud pies beneath our treehouse, play with the dog, and ride our bikes. We’d collect dandelions, swing from the tire, and engage in epic stick battles. Living in the countryside, fifteen minutes from town, meant no neighbors or organized playdates—just winding gravel roads, endless fields, and a big blue sky. Occasionally, a neighboring kid would wander over for a visit.
While we played outside, my mom would be moving about the house, chatting with her stay-at-home mom friends on a corded phone. She’d prepare lunch, fold laundry, dust, and sometimes indulge in a good book. During this time, we were busy creating elaborate plays and getting delightfully messy.
On particularly hot days, my mom would set up the sprinkler, and for hours, we’d leap through the refreshing arcs of water, quenching our thirst directly from the stream. If a storm kept us indoors, we’d get inventive. We’d listen in on phone calls or play with Barbies and action figures, writing stories and building with our colorful Legos.
As the oldest, I often ran “Manners School” in the kitchen or pretended we were bartenders in a saloon, inspired by my dad’s favorite movie, Tombstone. We’d slide juice glasses across the counter, gruffly asking for “another shot!” Complaining about boredom was a big no-no; it would land us chores like washing dishes, sweeping the floor, or picking vegetables from the garden.
Now, as a mother of four, I find summer is just around the corner. There are countless local camps and events to consider, but I’m opting out. I have no interest in spending a fortune on glitter-filled crafts or concert performances. With four kids of different ages, attending the same camps is impossible, meaning I’d be stuck driving around town in the sweltering heat with cranky kids.
What about trips to the zoo, amusement parks, or museums? That just means more heat, expenses, and crowds. Baseball? No thanks; they’re not interested, and I look forward to relaxing with Netflix and a glass of wine at night. I’m reclaiming summer for my sanity and my kids’ happiness—bring on the 1980s vibe!
I envision myself lounging in a lawn chair, flipping through a magazine while my kids run through the sprinkler. When they get thirsty, I’ll offer them fruity popsicles. If they feel creative, they can hold concerts in the basement with old Halloween costumes or write a play. They can read books, play board games, or build epic structures with Legos. We have popsicle molds, and they are welcome to make their own treats. Let’s not forget the joy of bubbles.
I’ll happily assist them in baking cookies, swimming, hosting friends, and catching fireflies as the sun sets. My husband will fire up the grill, and we can enjoy popcorn during movie nights. All those gifts from the holidays that were left untouched due to school commitments? We’ll finally pull them out for my kids to enjoy.
And can we take a moment to appreciate the local library? It’s like a free shopping spree! The kids can choose stacks of books and movies to keep them entertained. Those inexpensive kid movie sessions at theaters are also a great option. On stormy days or when it’s unbearably hot, they can binge-watch classic shows or dive into video games together.
And if my little ones dare to utter the word “bored,” I have a long list of chores ready for them to tackle. Like my mom, I don’t tolerate complaints.
The possibilities for this summer are endless, and none involve breaking the bank or exhausting myself. I refuse to dread this season. We want to create lasting family memories, not get wrapped up in a hectic schedule that leaves us all worn out.
So call me old-fashioned; I’ll take that as a compliment. My childhood taught me that there’s magic in the everyday moments. Our summer inspired by the ’80s will certainly embrace a counter-cultural vibe, and I can’t wait to dive in!
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Summary:
This article captures the essence of a nostalgic summer, reflecting on how a simpler, more engaging childhood experience can be recreated for today’s children. Rather than succumbing to modern pressures of expensive camps and constant entertainment, the author aims to foster creativity and exploration through outdoor play, imaginative activities, and quality family time.