How to Create a ‘90s-Style Summer for Toddlers – Calm, Screen-Free, and Full of Play

 

Because summer doesn’t need to be busy to be beautiful.

---

Remember those childhood summers when the days felt endless?
Sticky fingers from popsicles. Running through sprinklers. Drawing chalk roads on the driveway and riding bikes until dinner.

It wasn’t full of screen time or structured activities. Just simple moments.
And those moments? They mattered.

Today’s toddlers don’t need more stimulation. They need more space to explore, gentle routines, and unstructured play. And the good news is—you don’t need to over-plan to make that happen.

This summer, let’s bring back that calm, creative, screen-free magic—with a toddler-friendly twist.

---

🌿 1. Set a Gentle Summer Rhythm (Not a Schedule)

Toddlers thrive on predictability. But summer doesn’t have to feel like a classroom.

Instead of scheduling every hour, try creating a loose daily rhythm using visual routines:

• Wake up

• Breakfast

• Outdoor play

• Snack + quiet activity

• Storytime

• Free play or sensory bin

• Dinner and evening wind-down

Visual aids like My Daily Routine Chart or Morning & Evening Cards help toddlers know what comes next—without the overwhelm of constant change.

---

🌞 2. Use Choice Boards to Empower Your Toddler

When toddlers are given too many options, it can lead to frustration.
That’s where a visual choice board can help.

Offer just 2–4 options like:

• Sensory play

• STEM bin

• Puzzle time

• Art activity

Letting them choose helps reduce power struggles and boosts confidence. You can rotate your board daily using visual cards from your Choice Board Kit for Toddlers.

---

📴 3. Try Screen-Free Mornings

You don’t have to cut screens entirely. Just starting the day without them can make a big difference.

Try using:

• A printed routine chart instead of a TV show

• A visual schedule board to guide morning transitions

• Social stories like “When I Feel Angry” or “When I Want to Throw Toys” to teach emotional regulation

This sets a calm tone for the whole day—and reduces overstimulation.

---

🍉 4. Keep It Simple: Backyard > Pinterest

You don’t need the perfect setup.
Your toddler doesn’t care if their mud kitchen matches a color scheme.

Simple wins every time:

• A tub of water and some cups

• Bubbles and sidewalk chalk

• A blanket with books under a tree

• Running barefoot in the grass

These moments build focus, independence, and calm. Bonus? They’re free.

---

🧠 5. Let Boredom Be the Beginning

“I’m bored” isn’t a failure—it’s the start of creativity.

Let your toddler feel bored sometimes. Then offer a small spark:

• A choice card

• A bin of open-ended toys

• A calm-down corner with fidget tools

Give them space—and you’ll be amazed what they come up with on their own.

---

🌼 You Don’t Need a Perfect Summer

You just need a peaceful one.
Routines don’t have to be rigid. Days don’t have to be filled.
Your presence, patience, and a few visual tools are enough.

You’re doing better than you think.

---

📥 Grab Visual Tools for a Screen-Free Summer

Looking for printables to support a calm routine?

🎁 Here’s what you’ll find in our Etsy shop:
✔ Toddler Daily Routine Chart
✔ Morning & Evening Routine Cards
✔ Visual Choice Board Kit
✔ Toilet Training Routine Charts
✔ Social Stories for Big Feelings (Anger, Sad, Throwing Toys)

👉 Visit KidRoutinePrintables on Etsy »

💾 Or download instantly on Payhip:
kidroutineandplay.com/freebies (Free + paid resources available)

Whether you're planning a calm summer at home or setting up your daycare, these visuals help bring structure without stress.

---