From Spontaneous to Strategic: Letting Our Boys Lead the Summer Adventure
Letting Our Boys Lead the Summer Adventure
If you know me, you know I’ve always been the type to throw a bag in the trunk, grab the kids, and hit the road with no set plan—just a heart full of excitement and a playlist ready to go.
But as our boys are growing, I’ve noticed something shifting.
They’re becoming more aware, more opinionated (in the best ways), and more inclined to ask why we’re going somewhere and what’s next. They’re not just passengers anymore. They want to be part of the ride.
So this summer, we’re doing something different.
Family Planning... With Heart
We sat down this past Sunday for what turned into a full-blown family meeting. Yep—snacks, travel lists, and lots of laughter. With great deliberation (and a whole lot of listening), my husband and I invited the boys into the planning process. We wanted this summer to be meaningful to them, not just something we orchestrated.
We handed the reins—well, partially—to our middle son.
The List That Sparked a Movement
When he presented his list to the family, his brothers immediately chimed in. One added amusement parks (Disney World/Land). Another pushed for space camps and more. Suddenly, we weren’t just talking about destinations, we were dreaming together.
We laughed. We debated. We stretched the “local” guideline more than once.
It was beautiful.
And today, we’re in the phase of gentle reality checks. Not everything on their dream list will happen this summer but we’re treating their ideas like treasures. Whatever doesn’t make the cut now then it goes on the bucket list (for later itinerary).
We asked them to prioritize what’s most meaningful right now? What can we tackle first?
They’re still deciding. And we’re giving them the space to.
Mama's Still Got a Few Surprises
Of course… they don’t know everything.
While they’re organizing and plotting out mileage and stops, I’ve got a few spontaneous adventures up my sleeve. Because that spark, that thrill of the unexpected, it still matters. And honestly—it teaches, too.
Some of the best moments happen when plans get disrupted.
So yes, I’ll still surprise them. I’ll still create experiences where they’ll face a fear, tackle a challenge, or go somewhere they never thought they could. Because those are the trips that stretch us. That shows them they're capable. Brave. Resourceful.
Lessons I’ve Learned (and Keep Learning)
Trusting your children builds their confidence.When we include them, they rise up. They feel that their voice matters.
Planning can still have space for spontaneity.Structure doesn’t kill freedom…it gives it form. But there’s always room for detours
Every child expresses adventure differently.Let them define what adventure means to them. One may want thrills, another may want peace.
The process matters just as much as the destination.The planning, the talking, the compromise and that’s where the family bond deepens.
A Challenge to Fellow Mamas & Parents
Mama, I know how easy it is to plan everything for our kids. We do it out of love, out of efficiency, out of instinct.
But what if, just what if…we made space for them to lead?
What if we handed over the marker, the map, the questions and let them tell us what lights them up?
Not only do they get to feel seen and heard, but they learn decision-making, compromise, collaboration, and creativity. And most of all, they learn to trust themselves.
So here’s your challenge:
This summer, invite your child to help plan an adventure.Let them choose a destination, build an itinerary, or even just pick the snacks.Start small. Watch them shine.
Let’s raise travelers, thinkers, and doers, not just watchers of the world.And as we guide them… let’s not forget to grow alongside them.
Here’s to the messy, meaningful journey—together.
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