As the last wisps of spring dissipate, the air is filled with the sweet scent of blooming flowers and the promise of endless summer days. It’s a time when kids trade in their backpacks for beach balls and their textbooks for sun-kissed afternoons. For many parents, the desire to recreate the idyllic summers of their own childhood is a powerful motivator. We want our kids to experience the carefree joy of summertime, to be free from the constant glow of screens and the endless notifications that come with them. But, as any parent knows, achieving this goal requires more than just a simple ban on devices. It demands a return to the values and practices of a bygone era – the era of the ’90s summer mom.
The ’90s Summer Mom: A Blueprint for a Device-Free Summer
The ’90s were a simpler time, not just because social media was in its infancy, but also because parents were more hands-off. We didn’t have the same level of access to information, and as a result, we didn’t have the same level of anxiety about our kids’ safety and well-being. We also didn’t have the same level of pressure to be perfect parents, to present a curated version of ourselves to the world. Instead, we focused on creating a sense of community and connection with our kids, on building memories that would last a lifetime.
7 Essential Summer Vibes Every 90s Summer Mom Needs to Bring Back
So, what exactly does it mean to be a ’90s summer mom? Here are 7 essential summer vibes that every parent should strive to bring back:
- Unplugged Summers: The ’90s were a time before smartphones, before tablets, and before the constant ping of notifications. To recreate the summers of our childhood, we need to be willing to unplug and let our kids experience the world without the filter of a screen.
- Outdoor Adventures: Summer is the perfect time to get outside and explore the world around us. Whether it’s a trip to the beach, a hike in the woods, or a bike ride through the park, our kids need to experience the thrill of discovery and the joy of physical activity.
- Imaginative Play: The ’90s were a time before the rise of screen-based entertainment, and as a result, kids had to rely on their imaginations to create their own fun. We need to encourage our kids to engage in imaginative play, to use their creativity and problem-solving skills to create their own games and activities.
- Summer Camps and Sleepovers: The ’90s were a time when summer camps and sleepovers were a staple of childhood. We need to recreate this sense of community and connection, to provide our kids with opportunities to make new friends and create lasting memories.
- Summer Reading: The ’90s were a time when reading was a popular pastime, and we need to encourage our kids to develop a love of reading that will last a lifetime. Whether it’s a trip to the library or a summer reading program, we need to make reading a priority.
- Summer Cooking and Baking: The ’90s were a time when kids were encouraged to get involved in the kitchen, to learn the basics of cooking and baking. We need to recreate this sense of connection to food, to provide our kids with opportunities to learn about nutrition and cooking.
- Summer Gardening: The ’90s were a time when kids were encouraged to get their hands dirty, to learn about the joys of gardening and the importance of growing their own food. We need to recreate this sense of connection to nature, to provide our kids with opportunities to learn about sustainability and environmentalism.
The Challenges of Being a 90s Summer Mom
Of course, being a ’90s summer mom isn’t without its challenges. In fact, it can be downright daunting to try to recreate the summers of our childhood in a world that is so different from the one we grew up in. Here are some of the challenges that parents face:
- Social Media Pressure: Social media can be a powerful tool for parents, but it can also be a source of pressure and anxiety. We feel like we need to present a perfect image of ourselves and our kids, to share our every moment with the world. But this can be overwhelming, and it can make it difficult to relax and enjoy the simple things in life.
- Lack of Structure: The ’90s were a time when kids had more free time, when they were allowed to explore and discover on their own. But in today’s world, we often feel like we need to provide a structured schedule for our kids, to keep them busy and engaged. This can be difficult, especially for parents who are used to a more relaxed approach to parenting.
- Fear of Missing Out (FOMO): The ’90s were a time before the rise of social media, and as a result, we didn’t have the same level of FOMO that we do today. We didn’t feel like we were missing out on important events or experiences, and we didn’t feel like we needed to be constantly connected to our friends and family. But in today’s world, FOMO can be a real challenge for parents, especially those who are used to a more relaxed approach to parenting.
Practical Tips for Becoming a 90s Summer Mom
So, how can parents overcome these challenges and become a ’90s summer mom? Here are some practical tips:
1. Unplug and Relax
The first step to becoming a ’90s summer mom is to unplug and relax. This means putting down your phone, turning off the TV, and finding ways to engage with your kids in a more meaningful way. Whether it’s going for a hike, playing a game, or simply hanging out in the backyard, make time for quality time with your kids.
2. Create a Schedule (But Not Too Much)
While it’s tempting to create a super-structured schedule for our kids, this can actually be counterproductive. Instead, try to create a balance between structure and free time. This will give your kids the freedom to explore and discover on their own, while also providing them with a sense of security and routine.
3. Get Involved in Your Community
The ’90s were a time when communities were stronger and more connected. To recreate this sense of community, try to get involved in your local community. This could mean volunteering at a local school, joining a parent-teacher organization, or simply attending community events. By getting involved in your community, you can help create a sense of connection and belonging for your kids.
4. Encourage Imaginative Play
Imaginative play is an essential part of childhood development, and it’s something that we need to encourage in our kids. Whether it’s through playdates, playgroups, or simply encouraging your kids to use their imagination, make time for imaginative play in your daily routine.
5. Get Outside
The ’90s were a time when kids spent more time outside, and this is something that we need to recreate in our own lives. Whether it’s through sports, hiking, or simply playing in the backyard, make time for outdoor activities with your kids.
The Benefits of Being a 90s Summer Mom
So, what are the benefits of being a ’90s summer mom? Here are just a few:
- Improved Mental Health: Being a ’90s summer mom can be good for your mental health. By unplugging and relaxing, you can reduce stress and anxiety, and improve your overall sense of well-being.
- Increased Connection with Your Kids: By engaging with your kids in a more meaningful way, you can increase your connection with them and improve your relationship.
- More Free Time: By not being glued to your phone, you can have more free time to pursue your own interests and hobbies.
- Improved Physical Health: By getting outside and engaging in physical activity, you can improve your physical health and reduce your risk of chronic disease.
Conclusion
Being a ’90s summer mom is a challenge, but it’s also a rewarding one. By unplugging, relaxing, and getting involved in your community, you can recreate the summers of your childhood and give your kids the gift of a truly unforgettable summer. So, take the first step today and start creating the memories that will last a lifetime. Your kids will thank you, and so will you.
As the summer months approach, remember that it’s not just about providing a fun and exciting experience for your kids. It’s about creating a sense of connection and belonging, of community and tradition. It’s about being a ’90s summer mom, and all the joys and challenges that come with it.
Enjoying this post? Get weekly family & home ideas in your inbox — free.
