Every Michigan season has its charms, but none captures the free-spirited whimsy of a happy childhood quite like summer. Abundant sunshine combines with our state’s emerald forests and more than 3,000 miles of coastline to form the perfect playground.

Summer is a prime opportunity for kids to build the kinds of experiences that support lifelong mental and physical health. At Children Trust Michigan (CTM), we’re focused on creating a brighter future for children across the state, and the HOPE framework — Healthy Outcomes from Positive Experiences — is an important tool in our approach.

Some of the most joyful summer memories are made at the pool — a feast for all five senses, full of cool water to touch, big splashes to hear, colorful towels to see, sunscreen to smell and, often, refreshing snacks to taste.

The pool can also be a place to experience supportive mentorship. A child learning how to swim with the encouragement of a trusted adult by their side isn’t just learning an important and lifesaving skill. They’re learning connection, confidence and belonging. It’s a great example of a Positive Childhood Experience (PCE).

Unstructured playdates, nature hikes with friends, catching fireflies at night — these classic summertime outings can help children build resilience, process emotions and develop problem-solving skills in real-time.

Summer’s positive experiences are many, but there are pitfalls to be aware of.

Some of summer’s dangers are environmental. The sun causes burns and dangerous temperatures that can lead to heat exhaustion, heat stroke and death — particularly when combined with overexertion or hot cars. An average of 37 children die each year after being left in vehicles on hot days. It is important to remember that it is NEVER safe to leave children alone in a vehicle. If you see this, call 9-1-1. Every minute matters. Additionally, keep vehicles locked and keys out of reach when not in use so that kids can’t gain access to cars unattended.

Bodies of water present drowning risks. Bicycles, grills, playgrounds, fishing poles and other staples of summer all pose potential hazards — particularly to younger children left unattended. In the summer of 2023, nearly 200,000 children suffered injuries related to summertime activities that landed them in the emergency room, according to data from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission’s National Electronic Injury Surveillance System.

Overnight camps, pool parties, visits to relatives and sleepovers with friends are all notable summer pastimes. They are great opportunities for children to play, learn and grow outside their everyday routines. But they also bring kids into contact with many people under different levels of supervision, making it extra important to ensure they are familiar with body safety principles and how to implement them.

Share these key lessons with your kids to stay safe during summer

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• Trust Your Instincts – If something feels off, listen to your gut. It's OK to say no or walk away from uncomfortable situations.
• It’s Your Body – Your body belongs to you. No one should touch you in a way that makes you feel unsafe, and you never have to keep secrets about inappropriate touch.
• Safe Adults and Safe Spaces – Identify trusted adults you can turn to and places where you feel secure. If you need help, speak up right away.
• Secrets vs. Surprises – Learn the difference. Safe adults don't ask kids to keep secrets, especially ones about touch, gifts or interactions that make them feel nervous.
• Speak Up – Practice saying “NO” confidently and reporting concerns to trusted adults.
• Help Others Stay Safe – If you see a friend in distress, encourage them to speak up. Supporting each other makes a big difference.

Teaching children these concepts helps them enjoy spending time with others and making new friends while staying safe. To learn more about body safety principles and other prevention lessons, it’s a great idea to connect with a CTM Prevention Partner near you. CTM has more than 100 partners serving each of Michigan’s 83 counties. Check out the full list.

Together we can help ensure every child can positively experience the full magic of a Michigan summer, learning, laughing and growing in HOPE.