How to Survive a Long Summer with Teens

And maybe even enjoy it (a little)

Let’s be real: summer with teens is a whole different game. You’re not packing juice boxes and slathering sunscreen on toddlers anymore. Now you’re navigating mood swings, endless screen time battles, midnight snack raids, and the existential dread of “I’m bored” (while standing in a room full of stuff).

If you’re in the thick of it, deep breath. You are not alone—and yes, survival is possible.

1. Loosen the Reins (Just a Bit)

They’re not little kids anymore. Teens crave independence, so don’t be afraid to let them sleep in, make their own lunches, or plan their own outings (even if that outing is to the kitchen for the fifth time before 10am). Giving them some autonomy helps reduce power struggles—and teaches them real-world responsibility.

2. Make a Flexible Routine

Teens love to pretend they hate structure… until there’s none. Set up a loose daily rhythm:

• Wake-up window

• Chore time (yes, they can clean things)

• Free time

• Outdoor time

• Family dinner

• Screens off by a certain hour (good luck, but try)

They don’t need a rigid schedule—but they do need a rhythm so the days don’t blur into one long scroll-fest.

3. Outsource the “Boredom” Problem

When they say “I’m bored,” respond with one of these:

• “Want to reorganize the garage?”

• “Here’s the list of things you said you’d do if you ever had more free time.”

• “Boredom is where creativity starts.”

• “Let’s bake something!”

• Or just: “Not my circus, not my brain fog.”

Sometimes, let them be bored. Magic can happen there.

4. Find One Thing to Do Together

Pick one thing you can do as a family that won’t spark an eye-roll apocalypse. A weekly movie night. Making homemade pizza. A hike (with bribes). Board games. Thrifting. Even if they groan at first, they’ll remember the time together.

5. Let Go of the Instagram Summer Fantasy

You don’t need to plan perfect beach days or craft the ultimate DIY lemonade stand. This isn’t Pinterest—it’s real life. If summer includes laundry piles, late breakfasts, and way too many popsicle sticks on the porch, you’re doing it right.

6. Involve Them in the Real World

Summer is a great time to teach life skills without sounding like a lecture. Cooking. Budgeting. Grocery shopping. Car maintenance. Applying for jobs. Even better—ask their opinion on something that matters. Show them they’re not just kids—they’re young adults becoming who they are.

7. Don’t Skip Self-Care

They don’t need you to entertain them 24/7. You still get to have your own summer. Make space for your sanity:

• A quiet morning walk

• Reading something just for fun

• Saying “no” to the 15th snack request

• Going out with friends and leaving them in charge for a bit (yes, they’ll survive)

Your needs still count—even in the chaos.

Final Thought:

Summer with teens isn’t about picture-perfect moments. It’s about showing up, riding the rollercoaster of hormones and laughter, and building small memories in between the “leave me alone” and “can I borrow the car?”

You’re doing better than you think. And hey—school starts again eventually.