As the final stretch of summer approaches, single dads everywhere are looking at the calendar and wondering, Where the fu*k did the time go? Between work, navigating custody schedules, and juggling responsibilities, the weeks of summer flew by. But here’s the good news: there’s still time to make these last summer days count, especially with your children by your side.
Whether they are seven or fifteen, this is your opportunity to strengthen your bond, create lasting memories, and give them a summer ending they won’t forget. For me, it’s my 7- and 9-year-old daughters.
1. Reconnect Without the Rush
Summer often starts with big plans—vacations, camps, beach days—but life happens. If you’ve had a few missed moments, now is the time to reconnect without pressure. Take a walk together, grab ice cream, or have a no-screen dinner outside. Sometimes, the simplest moments are the ones your kids remember the most.
Tip: Let them lead the conversation. Ask about their summer favorites, what they are excited (or nervous) about for the school year, or what they want to do the next time you have them.
2. Make a Mini Summer Bucket List
Even if time is short, you can still create a mini bucket list together. Sit down with your children and list 3-5 things you want to do before summer ends. It could be:
- A movie night in the backyard
- A road trip to a nearby town
- Visiting a local fair or festival
- Creating a photo book of summer memories
- A “yes day” where they pick everything (within reason). For my kids, I give them 2 a year. See my prior post on one of them here
Why it matters: It gives them something to look forward to and lets them know that you care about doing things together—not just managing the logistics.
3. Teach Something They Can Take Into the School Year
Whether it’s how to pack a healthier lunch, riding a bike or money management, summer is a great time to pass down a skill or life lesson. These moments of teaching don’t just build their independence; they build trust in you.
Bonus: You get to show that being a strong dad means being present, thoughtful, and involved.
4. Create a New Ritual for the Fall
As summer ends, back-to-school routines creep in. But transitions are easier when they’re paired with positive rituals. These are some I have jotted down so far.
- A weekly “dad and daughters” breakfast date
- A weekend hike
- A Friday night tradition (movies, puzzles, or even pizza & dance-offs)
This helps carry your bond into the busy months ahead—and gives them something steady to rely on when life gets hectic.
5. Remind Them (and Yourself) That You’re Enough
Single fatherhood can be isolating and filled with doubt. Maybe you feel like you didn’t “do enough” this summer. Maybe you’re still figuring things out. But to your children, your presence is the most important gift of all.
You don’t need a perfect plan or an Instagram-worthy vacation. They will remember the laughs in the car, your goofy jokes, the times you showed up, even when you were tired or stressed.
Don’t underestimate your impact.
Final Thought: End With Heart
As summer winds down, resist the urge to stress about what you didn’t do (there is always next summer). Focus on what you can still do today. Show them that even in the final days of the season, love, connection, and effort matter most.
You’re not just finishing summer strong—you’re shaping a childhood they will carry with them forever.
To all the single dads out there—keep going. You’re doing more than you know.
