The Parallels of Planning Summer Activities and Planning for Retirement

Once school is out for your kids or grandkids, how long does it usually take for them to tell you that they’re bored? No matter how good they are at entertaining themselves, that’s a question that all parents, grandparents, and other guardians need to be prepared for. We hope that the summer activities mentioned in this article can be ones that the whole family enjoys.

But before we share our list of summer activities, think about this for a minute. If you are considering retirement, what are you going to do every day when you’re no longer working? That’s part of why it’s important to start planning for retirement at least five to 10 years before you retire. Believe it or not, but boredom is a feeling that can quickly consume your retirement if you don’t plan for it.

While your kids or grandkids may be going back to school in the fall (or starting a new job if they recently graduated), retirement isn’t a temporary vacation. This is the rest of your life that you need to plan for. What do you want your lifestyle to look like in retirement? If you’re not sure where to start with retirement planning, download our Retirement Plan Checklist to review several important retirement planning considerations.

Retirement Plan Checklist

Soaking Up Summer with These Fun Activities

1. Stay Cool at the Pool or Slip N’ Slide into Summer

Planning for retirement should be unique for each individual and so should planning summer activities. However, there are some staple summer activities that many families enjoy, such as spending time at the pool. If you don’t have a pool at your house or a city or neighborhood pool, consider buying a kiddie pool or setting up a slip n’ slide that your kids or grandkids.

Along with playing with your kids/grandkids in the pool, think about some poolside activities that you’ll enjoy. It could be a great time to read a new book or get caught up on your favorite podcasts (don’t forget to subscribe to America’s Wealth Management Show on your favorite podcast app so you don’t miss future episodes).

2. Support the Arts

Do you have kids/grandkids who enjoy music, movies, theater, crafts, or other forms of art? Summertime is a popular time for drive-in movies, outdoor concerts and plays, and sidewalk chalk. If it’s too hot for those summer activities or it’s a rainy day, consider going to a museum, movie theater, or your local library. Did you know that admission is free to select Smithsonian museums and the Smithsonian National Zoo, and there are 200-plus Smithsonian affiliate museums? Check and see if there’s a location near you!

3. Make Plans for the Fourth of July

The Fourth of July falls on a Friday this year, which means many people may get a three-day weekend (or longer). It’s not too late to plan a summer vacation, whether it’s a trip to the lake, a nearby national park, a city you’ve never been to, or to another family member’s house. No matter where you spend the Fourth of July, consider watching a local fireworks show, attending a Fourth of July parade, or hosting a cookout. There are so many ways to celebrate our many freedoms, but make sure that you and your family celebrate them safely!

4. Attend a State Fair, Summer Festival, or Carnival

State fairs, summer festivals, and carnivals are summer activities that the whole family might enjoy. What’s better than the combination of good food and entertainment? Many state fairs are scheduled for late summer/early fall, so there’s plenty of time to plan a trip to your state fair.3 Additionally, consider checking out your local farmer’s markets, art fairs, and other community-based events in your town this summer.

5. Go to a Summer Sporting Event

This might be an easy summer bucket list item for you to check off if your kids play a summer sport. Oftentimes, winter, spring, and fall sports still feature camps, practices, and games that take place during the summertime too. But make sure your kids and grandkids are getting some rest and relaxation this summer, too, even if they do love playing sports. Taking them to see their favorite professional, semi-pro, or other local team play could be a great bonding opportunity and a chance for them to learn even more about the sport they love.

What Summer Activities Will You Enjoy This Year?

We hope that these summer activities can help your family make some special memories over the next few months. Spending more time with family is a highlight of the summer for so many parents and grandparents. It’s also a year-round goal for many people in retirement.

Planning for retirement can feel like a daunting task, but it’s one that you don’t have to do on your own. Our team of professionals is ready to help you build a comprehensive financial plan that’s tailored to your unique goals. Start a conversation with our team below to help determine what your money needs to do for you to achieve your goals.

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If you’re not quite ready to start working with a team of professionals yet, that’s OK. But we do hope that you’ll start thinking about what you want your retirement lifestyle to look like this summer. And as you’re thinking about it, don’t forget to download a copy of our Retirement Plan Checklist. We hope it can be a helpful resource for you and look forward to helping you address any questions you may have about your financial future.

Resources Mentioned in This Article

Downloads

Retirement Plan Checklist

Other Sources

[1] https://www.si.edu/visit/museums

[2] https://affiliations.si.edu/affiliate-directory/

[3] https://www.cruiseamerica.com/trip-inspiration/what-to-know-about-every-state-fair-in-2024

Investment advisory services offered through Modern Wealth Management, LLC, a Registered Investment Adviser.

The views expressed represent the opinion of Modern Wealth Management, LLC, a Registered Investment Adviser. Information provided is for illustrative purposes only and does not constitute investment, tax, or legal advice. Modern Wealth Management does not accept any liability for the use of the information discussed. Consult with a qualified financial, legal, or tax professional prior to taking any action.

5 Fun Summer Activities to do with Your Family