The sun is shining, school is out, and the long, exciting summer days await! For many families, summer is a chance to rest, reconnect, and have fun. But what if we could do all that and simultaneously grow in faith together?
Planning a Christ-centered summer is about making intentional choices to invite God into our everyday moments during these next few months — whether you’re taking a walk, stargazing, enjoying a backyard picnic, or just enjoying sticky popsicles! If you encounter resistance or disinterest from family members, remember that it’s okay to start small and be flexible. The goal is to create a Christ-centered environment, not to force participation.
Here are some joyful, faith-filled ideas to help your family enjoy summer break with purpose:
1. Start Each Day with a Verse and a Prayer
Begin your mornings with a simple family devotional — even just one verse and a quick prayer can help set the tone. Rotate who reads or picks the scripture to get kids involved. Psalm 118:24 is a great one to start: “This is the day the Lord has made; we will rejoice and be glad in it.”
2. Create a “Jesus Jar” of Activities
Write down fun and faith-building activities on slips of paper and keep them in a jar. Each day or week, let your kids pull one out. Some ideas:
3. Faith-Filled Field Trips
Plan outings that foster both fun and faith:
4. Use Music to Fill Your Home with Joy
Build a summer playlist of upbeat Christian music that your kids love. Play it while you clean, play, or drive. Let praise be the soundtrack to your summer memories. You can find many kid-friendly Christian playlists on music streaming platforms. This will fill your home with joy and uplift everyone’s spirits, creating a positive and energized atmosphere.
5. Encourage Serving Together
Summer gives us the gift of time — time to give back. Volunteer as a family at a food pantry, write notes to missionaries or create care packages for neighbors. Remind your kids that serving is a way to reflect Jesus’ love in action.
6. Keep a Summer Prayer Journal
Encourage your kids to keep a journal of prayers, thanksgiving, and blessings throughout the summer. At the end of the break, look back and see how God has worked — even in the small things.
7. Host a Backyard Bible Club
Gather neighborhood kids for a one-day (or one-week) mini Bible club. Sing songs, read a Bible story, do a craft, and share snacks. It doesn’t have to be big — just heartfelt.
8. Celebrate a Sabbath Rest
Summer offers a slower pace — so take a day each week to truly rest in God. This is what we call a “Sabbath Rest.” Put away screens, enjoy a special meal, walk, and spend extra time in prayer and gratitude. It’s a day to focus on God and family, recharge, and reflect on the week that has passed and the week to come.
Let This Be a Summer to Remember
As you enjoy lazy afternoons and long evenings, remember: summertime fun is about enjoying time with your children. Activities don't have to be perfect or scripted out. What counts is your presence. Invite Jesus into your everyday rhythms. Let your kids see that faith isn’t something we turn on and off; it’s a way of living, loving, and growing — even in flip-flops and sunscreen.
This summer, may your family laugh louder, rest deeper, and draw nearer to the One who gives every season its purpose.
