Kids think of summer as a time for fun, special activities, and trips. Summer can be all these things for parents too, but since we’re the ones who plan, implement, and pay for these events, we must ensure that we weigh the options, because we can’t possibly accept everything that summer has to offer. This is especially true for parents with chronic illness who may be more affected by heat, exertion, and stress than other adults.
As a person with multiple chronic illnesses, I find that extreme temperatures drain me physically and can lead to flares. This means that when I consider summer activities, I limit those that are extremely hot (theme parks) and extremely cold (water parks and Northern lakes). When choosing your own summer activities, the goal is to choose adventures that are a good fit for own body and fun for your kids. Summer can be exhausting and busy with children home from school, so be sure to pick activities that are quick and easy to plan.
In my picture book KENZIE’S LITTLE TREE, illustrated by Emilie Leduc, Kenzie loves adventuring with her chronically ill mom. In summer, Kenzie and her family visit the garden store and purchase a little tree that they plant together. Choosing small yard plants is an activity that’s gentle enough for me and fun for my family but this might not be a good fit for you and yours.
If not, then here’s a list of other simple ideas to pick from that I hope will make for great family memories without adding physical or emotional stress to your day!
