Summer is finally here! No more school runs, and no more after school clubs to juggle. But as freeing as that sounds, it can become a bit hectic since the usual daily structure disappears.

After a few summers with school-aged kids, I’ve learned one simple truth to managing it all: have a plan. Nothing too rigid, just a rough idea of what the kids will be doing (like a week of sports camp or daily quiet time), what meals you’ll have on hand, and any big things coming up like a family trip or special outing. That little bit of planning can go a long way in making your days feel calmer.

If you’re a mom who worries about how overwhelming summer can be, don’t worry. I’ve gathered my top 10 sanity-saving hacks that’ll help you stay organised, keep the kids happy, and make summer feel a little less like survival mode.

10 Hacks for an Organised and Enjoyable Summer

1. Plan All Meals One Week Ahead

There’s nothing worse than hungry kids asking  what’s for lunch while you have no idea. So if you want to stay sane, plan meals for the week ahead. I like doing it Sunday night and then getting everything in one grocery shop. It means no more daily stress about food, fewer snack raids, and less money spent on last-minute takeaways. 

So if you’re already worried about getting overwhelmed by the summer, dont worry. I’ve gathered my top 10 sanity-saving hacks + an instant download summer planner that’ll help you stay organised and keep the kids happy.

2. Set Up a Snack Station (Kid-Approved & Self-Serve)

Children snack a lot and for good reason. Snacks keep them happy, fuelled, and can help avoid those dramatic hunger meltdowns. However, we all know that sometimes they snack out of boredom. And boredom hits a lot during the summer holidays.

That’s why having a snack station is a game changer. Set up one in the fridge and one in the pantry with easy-to-grab items like fruit pouches, crackers, and refillable water bottles. Use clear bins and label everything so they know what’s fair game. You’ll cut down the “Mum, can I have something to eat?” questions by at least half.

3. Book Holiday Clubs Early

The closer summer gets, the harder it is to find a good club that isn’t fully booked or crazy expensive. Set a reminder to sort it out early. Even if you’re not 100% sure of dates yet, having options in place takes a load off your mind. I jot it all in my planner — including backup clubs, payment deadlines, and what the kids need to bring. It saves so much last-minute stress.

4. Create a Summer Uniform

Mornings go smoother when you don’t have to stand there wondering what your kids are going to wear — or argue about it. Pick 5 mix-and-match outfits per child and store them in labeled drawer organisers. You’ll save yourself from decision fatigue every single morning. Bonus? You’ll also cut down on laundry and random clothing piles.

5. Get the kids involved in selecting activities

Things go a lot smoother when the kids help plan their own fun. Sit down at the start of the week and ask them to pick a few activities — whether it’s park days, craft time, or a movie afternoon. Then plug it all into a summer planner so everyone knows what’s coming. It takes the pressure off you and gives them something to look forward to.

6. Establish a Morning and Bedtime Routine

One of the best things I ever did for our summer sanity? I kept a gentle rhythm in place whereby I start and end the day with a predictable routine. This routine chart was very helpful. Nothing strict or complicated. Just a simple wake-up plan (like brushing teeth, getting dressed, breakfast, then free play) and a bedtime wind-down that includes baths, books, and quiet time. It gives kids a sense of security, and honestly? It helps me feel like I’ve got a little structure to lean on too.

7. Use the 10-Minute Tidy Rule

Toys everywhere. Crumbs for days. Sounds familiar? Instead of letting it build up, try this: once a day, set a timer for 10 minutes and get everyone involved in tidying up. Blast music, make it a race, offer a sticker or treat after — whatever gets it done. It’s such a small thing, but it resets the house and gives you back your sanity.

8. Keep a ‘Go Bag’ Packed

Summer is full of impromptu park trips, splash pads, and errands that turn into adventures. Having a go bag packed and ready to grab is a total lifesaver. I keep wipes, nappies, spare clothes, snacks, and mini sunscreen in mine — and refill it every Sunday. That way, when you’re heading out the door, you’re not frantically packing while your toddler’s already in the pram.

9. Rotate Toys and Outdoor Play Bins

The more toys are out, the less kids actually play with them. Try this instead: pick a few toys or play kits for the week and put the rest away in labelled bins. Then rotate weekly. Suddenly, their toys feel new again and your house feels less like a toy explosion. It’s a win-win.

10. Give your kids a summer schedule visual

Even if you’re a “go with the flow” kind of mum, having a loose weekly rhythm helps everyone. Print out a weekly calendar or use a dry erase board to map things out: outings, rest days, activity ideas, even screen time blocks. It gives the kids something to look forward to and gives you a structure that doesn’t feel like pressure.

Need some printables to write out your meal plans, chore list, bucket list, reading log etc? check out the printable bundle below – made by moms for moms.