Summer looks very different this year. Whether you are planning a vacation or a staycation, pools aren’t all open yet, masks are required inside, and overall stress levels are on high alert. Let’s take some of that stress away!I’ve got some tips on how to survive summer in the time of COVID. 

Keep the kids busy

I know it’s so hard to constantly plan for them, so keep fun activities close by. We have tons of fun, creative games and activities to keep them occupied during the summer months. The Kittd Geo Building Set is perfect for a long car ride or dinner out. Planning a staycation? We’ve got postcards in a box from Kittd too that the kids can send from anywhere. Let them get creative!Our South Beach bubbles are a hit with all ages. The bubble wand and solution are easy to pack up in the car to take on a road trip and also make for a blast in the backyard.Don’t forget the puzzles! What’s a beach trip without completing a few puzzles?! We have beautiful designs from black-owned local business Little Likes Kids.   

Keep the kids safe

The biggest stressor right now for me is keeping my family safe while trying to keep summer normal for them. I have a stack of masks for the kids from local designer D’maran washed and ready to go at all times. So wherever our mood takes us that day/ week, we are masked and ready.We always have a fun assortment from Peanuts and Disney characters to nautical and girly prints. My boys actually don’t mind wearing the masks because a) they are cool prints and b) they are comfortable. I’ll never get used to seeing my precious four-year-old in a mask, but he rocks it! 

Stop by 529 to grab a mask and matching headband for the 4th!

Keep things “normal” (whatever normal is for your family)

I know this may seem hard right now but try! For me summertime is about sun, sand, dining al fresco, and dressing my kids in fun summer looks from Boden, Vineyard Vines, and now Johnnie O for my big boy!Even when we were hunkering down this spring, I made a point to #getdressed myself and get my boys dressed. Seeing them out of athletic gear and into the fun wardrobe I planned for them was very refreshing! So, grab some piggy paint and some hair bows at 529 to keep those girls summer ready, and check out our selection of boys summer clothing…it’s really good this year!We are trying to dine on our deck as much as possible to keep mealtime fun. We are also trying to support our local restaurants as much as possible too. Grab a table outside - I promise it will make you feel “normal” again!  

Support local

This goes without saying all the time, but especially now! You can get through this crazy summer by supporting all of the amazing businesses right here in town. Get your haircut and the kids - my boys could definitely use a trim! Grab some new duds, shoes, and accessories. You’ll thank me - it feels good. My consignment shops (529 and Mint) are loaded right now with great things (thanks to COVID and the time at home to clean out). 

Earrings from Mint Condition

 Hoping these tips help you as they are really helping me get through this! Need to commiserate? You know where to find me! 😀