DealDash Gets Summer Ready: Family Prep Checklist

Are you ready for summer to start? I bet your kids are. Me too!! Let’s get prepared for fun this summer!

It’s that time of year again. School is wrapping up, the days are stretching longer, and the kids are already asking about popsicles for breakfast. Before we tumble into the chaos of summer break, I like to take a few days to prep. Nothing fancy, just some simple steps that help our whole family slide into summer mode without the stress. Here’s my mom-tested checklist to get your family summer-ready with less scrambling. Read on for some fun ideas and suggestions from DealDash.

Check the Gear: What Still Fits? What’s Missing?

Before you head to the store (or start frantically clicking “Add to Cart”), pull out last year’s summer stash. Try on those swimsuits, test those goggles, and make sure your sunscreen hasn’t expired.

• Swimsuits & Rash Guards – Have at least two per kid so you’re not doing laundry daily.
• Water Shoes and/or Sandals – Great for splash pads, creeks, and surprise sprinkler runs. Check for worn-out soles or outgrown sizes.
• Towels & Goggles – Toss any moldy or holey ones and stock up on extras.
• Sunscreen & Bug Spray – Check expiration dates! I keep one set by the back door, one in the car, and one in the pool bag.
• Reusable Water Bottles – Hydration is key. Make sure each kid has a leakproof one they actually like using. I find that my kids like the ones with straws (like Owala) best.
• Outdoor Toys – Think bubble wands, chalk, jump ropes, water balloons, frisbees, and lawn games.
• Cooler Bags & Ice Packs – Perfect for park days, road trips, or just packing a few snacks for the backyard.

Keep a “grab-and-go” summer bag by the door with sunscreen, towels, snacks, water bottles, and a change of clothes. It’s a sanity-saver when spontaneous fun pops up.

Set a Loose Summer Routine (That Still Feels Fun)

As much as we all crave the freedom of summer, some gentle structure can help everyone stay sane. This is especially true during those long afternoons when energy dips and screens start calling. Keep it flexible, and don’t stress if some days look completely different, that’s the beauty of summer! Here’s a sample schedule to loosely follow:

• Morning:
  • Breakfast
  • Get dressed & brush teeth
  • Chores (simple things like feeding the cat, unloading the dishwasher)
  • 15–30 minutes of reading, journaling, or a learning app
• Late Morning:
  • Outdoor time (bike rides, sidewalk chalk, or a backyard scavenger hunt) Don’t forget the sunscreen!
  • Craft projects (popsicle stick picture frames, DIY tie-dye shirts, friendship bracelets)
• Afternoon:
  • Lunch
  • Quiet time (independent play, audiobooks, or puzzles)
  • Screen time (shows, games, or family movie if it’s a rainy day)
• Evening:
  • Dinner
  • Family walk or board games
  • Shower or bath
  • Bedtime reading & wind-down

Map Out the Calendar

I like to sit down in late spring and write out a rough calendar. This helps us avoid overcommitting and gives the kids things to look forward to. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• Camp Dates – Sports camps, art classes, Vacation Bible School, or half-day enrichment camps. Make a checklist of registrations and supply needs.
• Vacations & Day Trips – Whether it’s a big family road trip or a weekend at Grandma’s, get it on the calendar early.
• Family Events – BBQs, reunions, birthday parties, and neighborhood block parties.
• Free Local Fun – Bookmark your town’s library programs, outdoor movie nights, kids’ concerts, and farmer’s market schedules.
• Do Nothing Days – Designate a few “do-nothing” days for spontaneous fun or lounging in pajamas all day (kids love these just as much).

DealDash Has Items for Summer Fun

DealDash wants you to have a ton of fun this summer with your family! No matter what kind of summer that you are planning for your family, you will find all sorts of items on DealDash that you will love. For example, if your family is big on the water, you could make their whole summer with a WaveRunner! If you’re looking for something a little more practical, you will also find sports equipment like pickleball items, basketball hoops, and baseball bats. You will also find lots of clothing perfect for summer such as sundresses, bathing suits, and sun hats. Whatever you’re needing for summer, be sure to check DealDash first!

Thanks for Reading

Summer doesn’t have to start with a whirlwind of stress. With a little prep and a lot of flexibility, you can set the stage for a season full of fun, freedom, and family connection. Whether you’re soaking up sunshine or savoring slow mornings, a little planning now means more memory-making later. Thanks so much for reading, and happy bidding everyone!

This sponsored DealDash blog article was written by Dawn E, a mother of 3 who loves DealDash. Dawn was compensated for writing this article. Check out Dawn and her cats on Instagram! This blog is written by real DealDash customers. The opinions and advice shared here represent our customers’ views and not those of the company.