Tips to Get Summer Ready

Ahhh Summer! Longer days, ample sunshine and more time to spend with family and friends! It's the perfect time of year to plan get-togethers and fun outdoor events that the whole family can participate in. But before you do, let's talk logistics.

Since summer is right around the corner, now is the time to start preparing to ensure you and your family are safe while having fun in the sun. Start with the following safety tips:

Create a Summer Safety Plan: Summer brings more time outdoors, which also means more opportunities for injuries, dehydration, sunburns, and heat-related illnesses. North Carolina summers can be especially hot and humid, making hydration and heat safety essential for every member of the family. Before summer activities begin:

• Update your first aid kit
• Save emergency contacts in your phone
• Review water safety rules with children
• Apply and reapply sunscreen regularly
• Keep reusable water bottles in the car
• Identify cooling centers, splash pads, pools, and indoor play spaces nearby

For young children, establish a family rule that everyone takes water breaks and shade breaks throughout the day. Heat exhaustion and dehydration can happen quickly, especially during outdoor sports and playground visits.

Water (Hydration & Safety): Hydration is key for normal body function and helps regulate body temperature, deliver nutrients to cells and keep organs working properly. Avoid dehydration by drinking at least 6-8 glasses of water a day. You can also eat your water by eating fruits and veggies with a high water content like cucumbers, celery, strawberries, tomatoes and melon (this is a great option for kids or pregnant women). Water safety should also be a priority, especially for children or pets. Swim lessons can help you and your children learn safety protocols and build confidence around water. Pool fences are great for protection too.

Sun Protection: Protecting your skin and eyes from the sun is very important. Whether you're outside for 10 minutes or spending the day poolside, you'll want to apply sunscreen, wear shades and/or a hat. You will greatly decrease your risk of sunburn, wrinkles, skin damage or eye injury/disease.

​Mosquitos & Ticks: The best protection against mosquitoes and ticks is covering you skin. The next best thing is to use a good repellent with DEET and wear light-colored clothing to easily spot ticks. Also, keep your grass cut low, clear away any leaves and debris and be sure to remove any standing water around that may attract mosquitoes.

Snake Alert: The snakes are out! They will likely be in tall grass, basking in the sun or hunting. Be mindful when doing yardwork or spending time outside. Your best course of action is to purchase some 'snake away' to keep them at bay. Remember, you are more likely to be bitten if you try to kill them so it's best to stay away.

Remember Your Pets: Don't forget to protect your pets, too. Dogs and cats should receive regular flea & tick treatments and heart guard meds. Protect their paws from the hot pavement with booties/socks and keep them well hydrated and out of direct heat. Never leave them in the car.

​Staying alert and being mindful of these things will help keep your loved ones out of harm's way to enjoy every minute of summer.

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​Now let's talk about your family's summer experience.

Build a Summer Rhythm Instead of a Strict Schedule: One of the greatest gifts of summer is the opportunity to slow down. While structure is important, families often thrive with a flexible rhythm rather than a rigid schedule. Consider creating slower morning routines, quiet reading time, outdoor play blocks, weekly family adventures, screen-free afternoons and family game nights. Having a predictable rhythm helps children feel secure while still allowing room for spontaneity and fun.

And don't forget to plan for connection, not just activities. Creating a summer bucket list can spark family fun and create lasting memories. Your bucket list may include visiting a theme park, regular movie dates or volunteering together.

Prepare for Summer Travel: Whether you're planning a beach vacation, visiting grandparents, or taking day trips around North Carolina, a little preparation goes a long way. Create a family travel checklist that includes: snacks and water, extra clothes, medications, portable phone chargers, on-the-go entertainment for children and emergency contact information. If traveling with babies or young children, pack a "grab-and-go" bag that stays stocked throughout the summer. You may also find this blog helpful if you are planning a family road trip.

​Leave Your Calendar Open: Summer often brings changes in routines, childcare arrangements, work schedules, and expectations. These transitions can feel exciting and overwhelming at the same time, especially if your children are involved in extra-curricular activities, attend camp or you're planning a big family trip. Remember to give yourself permission to:

• Say no to overcommitting
• Schedule rest days
• Protect family downtime
• Prioritize sleep
• Ask for help when needed

Summer doesn't have to be perfect to be meaningful. A little preparation now can help your family enjoy a season filled with adventure, rest, connection, and joy.

As you prepare for the months ahead, focus on what matters most: creating a safe, healthy, and fun summer for the people you love.

Whether you're expecting a baby, raising little ones, navigating the teen years, or caring for aging parents, remember that every season offers an opportunity to slow down, connect, and build lasting memories together.