Hello Beautiful Self: A Parent's Guide to a Healthier Summer

by Dr. Linnea Terranova

Summer once meant long stretches of open time—bike rides around the neighborhood, running through sprinklers, building forts, and negotiating boredom with little more than a popsicle and a friend with a slightly better imagination. For those of us who grew up in the 1980s or earlier, that freedom came with a subtle gift: we learned how to be alone with ourselves. We had to create something out of nothing. No curated feeds, no constant pings, no pressure to be productive, just time, space, and a slowly forming not yet discovered, yet completely beautiful sense of Self.

Fast forward to today, and childhood looks very different. Parents now face the challenge of raising children in a fully digital world. The pressures are immense—not only from screens but also from the belief that a “good” summer is one filled with enriching activities, perfectly scheduled camps, and endless engagement. For working parents especially, screens have become both a lifeline and a source of guilt.

What We're Reading in June: Books for Presence, Wonder, and Summer Stillness

Some books entertain. Others transform—helping us see ourselves, or the world, through a clearer lens. This month’s picks (from leading psychological minds) are perfect companions for summer’s unstructured moments. Whether you’re lounging in a hammock or stealing quiet time after dinner, let these pages remind you: Stillness isn’t empty space. It’s where creativity and connection take root.

June Hikes We Like: Trails to Feed Your Quiet Self

Imagine a hike where the goal isn’t the summit, but the senses—the scent of damp earth after a coastal fog, the way light filters through redwoods, the sound of your own breath syncing with the trail. This month, we’re trading mileage counts for moments of awe. These two lesser-known trails (perfect for June’s cool mornings) aren’t just walks. They’re invitations to remember what happens when we slow down and let nature do the talking.

June Work/Life Balance Tips: Presence Over Productivity

Summer whispers an invitation: What if ‘balance’ wasn’t about rigid schedules, but about rhythms—breathing spaces between tasks, play woven into productivity? This month, we’re embracing tiny, research-backed tweaks to help you savor June’s slower tempo. From ‘curiosity hours’ to boundary-setting like a pro, these strategies aren’t about doing more. They’re about feeling more you amid the doing.