For many children, summer is a high point of the year — a period of fun, growth and fresh connection. It often means playing outside, more family time, new friends and novel experiences.

These kinds of opportunities make summer a season full of potential experiences that allow children to build happy memories, helping them thrive today, tomorrow and beyond. But sometimes, the very things that make summer an exciting time for kids can be a source of family stress.

With school out, daily routines change. Families may need to find additional childcare, adjust work schedules and cover extra costs like meals, activities and transportation. For some caregivers, this can be a lot to handle.

Too much stress makes it more difficult for caregivers to be patient and share joy with their children. The good news is that every parent can nurture the strengths that make stress manageable, and support can make a huge difference. At Children Trust Michigan (CTM), we are firm believers that prevention happens with partnership. Community partners can play a key role in strengthening families when the usual modes of support are disrupted.

Simple check-ins, access to resources and safe places for children to learn and play can foster positive experiences for caregivers and children alike.

In many cases, community resources for families navigating changes during the summer months are already in place. Accessing this support can help children feel safe, connected and ready to grow. Check out our list of prevention partners to find support near you.

CTM’s work is guided by two research-informed, strengths-based frameworks: the Strengthening Families Protective Factors and HOPE (Healthy Outcomes from Positive Experiences), each of which can be practiced during the summer months.

Activating Protective Factors: Tapping Into Existing Summer Support

Families thrive when they are surrounded by Protective Factors. These are strengths that provide resilience in the face of challenges. Caregivers can actively build these factors by taking advantage of community resources.

• Lean into Concrete Support: Summer meal programs, local food pantries or free or low-cost summer camps can provide concrete support that is essential for childhood success. Accessing these programs keeps households running smoothly and promotes peace of mind.
• Strengthen Social Connections: Stress feels heavier when parents feel alone. Take advantage of free, local community events like library reading hours, neighborhood park meetups and more. These opportunities to connect with other caregivers who understand exactly what you’re going through are invaluable.
• Rely on Resources as Routines Change: Local workshops, family resource hubs and parent peer groups can offer practical ideas and support to help families navigate new summer routines with confidence.

Unlocking HOPE: Easy Ways to Build Positive Experiences

Caregivers don't need a big budget to give children a memorable summer. Children can thrive through the support of simple, foundational building blocks. Parents can easily access these experiences through existing local programming:

1. Nurturing Relationships: Introduce your child to positive mentors by enrolling them in local, trusted summer programs, youth groups or library clubs.
2. Safe Environments: Take advantage of free, safe community spaces, such as Michigan’s state parks, public splash pads and local libraries that give children room to explore safely.
3. Key Engagement: Involve children in community traditions, including free town festivals, farmers markets or neighborhood cleanups to help them feel a sense of belonging.

CTM supports a statewide network of prevention partners serving all 83 counties. These partners are dedicated to helping families and solving problems before stress becomes overwhelming.

Here’s to giving Michigan children the stable, secure, joyful summer they deserve.