There is still plenty of summertime left before the weather cools and we get to send our kiddos off for another year of school. Summer in Washington, DC is a time of long days, warm weather, and endless opportunities for family fun. For solo parents, the season can be both exhilarating and challenging. Balancing work, childcare, and personal time becomes another chore, but with the right planning and resources, it can be a summer to remember for both you and your children. Here’s are tips for solo parents managing summer plans with how to make the most of your summer, including trips, camps, and back-to-school preparation.
Exploring DC: Day Trips and Weekend Getaways
Staycation Adventures
Smithsonian Museums: Take advantage of the free museums along the National Mall. The National Air and Space Museum and the National Museum of Natural History are always a hit with kids.
National Zoo: A visit to the National Zoo in Woodley Park is a great way to spend a day. The zoo offers a range of exhibits and special programs for children.
Rock Creek Park: On cooler days; enjoy hiking, picnicking, and even horseback riding. The park also has a planetarium and nature center.
Weekend Getaways
Shenandoah National Park: Just a couple of hours from DC, this park offers breathtaking views, hiking trails, and camping options.
Rehoboth Beach, Delaware: For a beach escape, Rehoboth Beach is a family-friendly option with a charming boardwalk and plenty of activities.
Williamsburg, Virginia: Immerse your family in history with a trip to Colonial Williamsburg. The interactive exhibits and reenactments make history come alive.
Summer Camps in the Washington, DC Area
Summer camps are a fantastic way for kids to learn new skills, make friends, and stay engaged. A lot camps are fully registered and have a waitlist starting in January, but some still have availability. Here are some top picks for DC families (a good save for next year):
DC Department of Parks and Recreation Camps: Offering a wide range of activities from sports to arts and crafts, these camps are affordable and conveniently located across the city.
Smithsonian Summer Camp: These camps provide unique, hands-on experiences in subjects like science, art, and history.
Headfirst Summer Camps: Known for their sports camps, Headfirst also offers STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math) programs and adventure camps.
Glen Echo Park Camps: From dance and theater to visual arts and nature exploration, Glen Echo Park offers a variety of camps in a beautiful setting.
Planning for Back to School
As summer winds down, preparing for the upcoming school year becomes a priority. Here are some tips to ensure a smooth transition:
Shopping for Supplies
Tax-Free Weekend: Take advantage of the tax-free weekend in Virginia and Maryland (usually in August) for back-to-school shopping. This includes clothing, shoes, and supplies.
Local Stores and Deals: Target, Walmart, and local stationery stores often have back-to-school sales. Look out for discounts and bulk deals.
Health and Wellness
Annual Check-Ups: Schedule doctor and dentist appointments before the school year starts and get the required universal health forms and oral health assessment form filled out.
Vaccinations: Ensure your child’s vaccinations are up to date. DC Public Schools require proof of immunization for enrollment.
After-School Programs
DC Public Library: The library offers homework help and after-school activities. Check out their calendar for upcoming events.
Community Centers: DC’s community centers provide a range of after-school programs, including tutoring, sports, and arts.
Organizing and Planning
Calendar Management: Use a family calendar to keep track of important dates, including school events, extracurricular activities, and appointments.
Routine Establishment: Gradually reintroduce school-year routines a few weeks before school starts. This includes earlier bedtimes and regular meal schedules.
Childcare Assistance
Child Care Subsidy Program: Provides financial assistance to eligible families for childcare costs.
DC Child Care Connections: Helps parents find licensed childcare providers.
Financial Aid and Scholarships
DC Tuition Assistance Grant (DCTAG): Offers up to $10,000 per year for DC residents attending eligible colleges and universities.
Scholarships for Camps and Programs: Many camps and after-school programs offer scholarships or sliding scale fees based on income.
Final Thoughts on Solo Parenting During the Summer
Solo parenting during the summer in DC can be a fun experience with the right planning and resources. From day trips and weekend getaways to enriching summer camps and back-to-school preparation, there are plenty of ways to ensure both you and your children have a memorable and enjoyable summer. Remember, you’re not alone—tap into the vibrant community of DC moms and local resources to make the most of this season.
Happy Summer!
As a solo parent this so helpful!!