4 Intentional Family Goals for a More Meaningful Summer

Implement some family goals this summer.

Summer can feel like it slips through our fingers—fast, chaotic, and gone before we know it. But what if we could slow down, get intentional, and create a season that leaves us feeling fulfilled instead of frazzled?

Parenting coach Andee Martineau offered four powerful goals to help families make the most of their summer together.

1. Build Strong Relationships

“Being intentional a little bit more and saying, ‘how do I get present? How do I stop multitasking’… is so important,” Andee emphasized. While we often assume proximity equals connection, Andee reminded us that true bonding requires presence. Summer offers a unique opportunity to deepen relationships with our children through:

• Solo time: Just 15 minutes of one-on-one attention can make a child feel seen and heard.
• Sweet and sours: A daily ritual of sharing highs and lows builds empathy and connection.
• Family dinners: Use conversation cards to spark meaningful dialogue, especially with older kids.

These rituals, once embedded in culture, now need to be intentionally created. “We get to create our own family culture,” Andee said.

2. Prioritize Rest

“Rest is the playground of emotions and that’s what really matures us,” Andee said. Rest isn’t laziness—it’s essential. She encouraged families to embrace slower rhythms and create space for emotional growth. Ideas include:

• Tech-free days or quiet time to disconnect from external pressures.
• Unstructured play for younger kids and downtime for teens.
• Letting go of perfection: “I’ve got to be okay with maybe the dishes on the sink so I can plop on the couch and offer some tickles,” Andee said.

Rest benefits both kids and parents, helping everyone recharge and reconnect.

3. Build Confidence Through Skills

Summer is the perfect time to teach life skills that build confidence. “There’s oftentimes more time to help them learn how to maybe cook a meal… or mow the lawn,” Andee said. Whether it’s learning to do laundry, cook, or clean a room, these tasks empower kids and foster independence.

She emphasized that confidence often comes from competence: “It takes time to teach our kids how to do skills. And patience.”

4. Make Time to Play

“There is nothing as intoxicating as play,” Andee emphasized. Play isn’t just for little kids—it’s a bonding tool for all ages. She encouraged parents to:

• Join in their kids’ interests, even if it’s not your thing.
• Be the aunt for a day: Drop expectations and just have fun.
• Channel your inner grandma: Be present, playful, and loving.

Play reduces defenses, strengthens relationships, and helps kids process emotions in a healthy way. “Let rest be the goal… and play be the bond,” Andee said.

Find more advice from Andee at connectmethodparenting.com.