Making the Most of Military Summer with Kids
Written by Mary Joy Matias
Summer Looks Different in Military Life
Summer looks a little different for military families. A parent might be deployed, we might be far from loved ones, or we might be adjusting to a new place. Even so, summer can still be filled with special moments for military families like mine.
The best memories don’t have to be expensive. A trip to the park, a movie night at home, a beach day, or simply making ice cream together can become the moments our kids remember most.
Military kids are incredibly resilient. They grow through change, adapt to new beginnings, and find joy in the little things.
This summer, focus less on making everything perfect and more on being present. The greatest gift we can give our children is our time, our love, and memories they’ll carry wherever military life takes us.
Building a Summer Full of Joy
A military summer isn’t about having the perfect plans — it’s about making the most of the time we have together.
Joy is found in the little things: playing outside, laughing together, trying new adventures, and simply being present. These simple moments often become the memories our kids will cherish the most.
This summer, we’re choosing joy, one day at a time.
Creating a Summer Routine
Summer is a great time to slow down, but having a simple routine can help keep the days calm and enjoyable for everyone. A summer routine doesn’t have to be strict, but we do try to keep a few things consistent:
- Waking up around the same time
- Eating summer meals together
- Setting aside time for play
- Getting fresh air
- Quiet time during the day
These easy routines help create a calm environment — a perfect starting point for any other fun summer activities!
Simple Ways We Stay Busy: Fun Summer Activities for Kids
Keep the kids busy with simple summer activities:
- Backyard water play (a hose can equal hours of fun!)
- Arts and crafts
- Movie afternoons
- Reading time
- Dancing
- Karaoke with grandma
- Little outdoor adventures
- Even small chores or making snacks can be fun when we do it together!
The goal isn’t to fill every moment — it’s about creating a relaxed summer where your kids can play, explore, use their imagination, and enjoy being together.
Finding Community During Summer
Summer can look and feel a little different for military families. In my case, my husband is currently deployed, and as much as I would like to take fun road trips with my kids, I know it would be too much for me to handle on my own.
That’s why community is so important for military families — we need a team that can support us when we need it.
Sometimes finding your military community starts with something simple: participating in a family event on base, attending kids’ activities, meeting another military spouse at the park, joining an online community, or simply reaching out to someone who understands this lifestyle.
I have met so many military spouses and families through my work and through volunteering. Making connections and building friendships is the best feeling!
Resources That Help Military Families
Military life comes with challenges, but you don’t have to face them alone. The Armed Services YMCA supports military families through deployments, moves, childcare, education, finances, and everyday life — they make everyday life a little easier.
From community events to food distributions to summer activities, the Armed Services YMCA is there with military family resources that help families thrive. A favorite among many kids is Operation Camp, where military children can learn and have fun, surrounded by other kids who understand military life. It’s the perfect summer activity to build community, leadership skills, and resilience.
Asking for support is one of the strongest things we can do for ourselves and our families. Take advantage of the resources around you, connect with your community, and remember you are never alone in this journey.
A Calm Happy Summer
This summer, we’re slowing down and simply enjoying being together. We’re creating a safe, peaceful home where our kids can laugh, play, explore, and just be kids. There are no big expectations — just family time, simple routines, and making memories one day at a time.
Sometimes the best summer isn’t the busiest one. It’s the one where everyone feels loved, safe, and happy to be together.
Learn more about Operation Camp and other Armed Services YMCA programs today.
Originally from Guam, Joy is a Navy spouse and parent of three currently stationed in Virginia. A former employee at ASYMCA’s childcare center, she vlogs about military life and is passionate about uplifting military families through transitions, deployments, and everyday experiences.
