When You’re the Entertainment: Surviving Long Weekends with Little Kids

There’s a strange pressure that hits parents every long weekend. Like we’re supposed to transform into cruise directors with a full itinerary and matching t-shirts. I’ve fallen into that trap before but spoiler alert: the kids just want snacks and your attention.

This year, I’m taking a slower approach. No big trips. No overthinking. Just simple, connected time — with enough space for quiet moments (for them and for me).

Some hits from our last stay-home long weekend:

• Build-your-own pizza bar (including the emergency pepperoni)

• Painting rocks for the garden (and accidentally the deck)

• Camping in the basement with LED lights, glowsticks and movies

• Letting them have a "yes" day — within reason (no, we are not getting a pony)

It’s okay to let go of the pressure. Kids remember how they felt with you — not whether the weekend was Pinterest-perfect.