It’s July 10th. We are officially in the "thick" of summer.
By now, the novelty of sleeping in has probably worn off, the "I'm bored" refrains have reached a crescendo, and the initial excitement of summer break might be replaced by a bit of cabin fever: or worse, burnout. If you’re feeling like your family rhythm has hit a snag, you aren’t alone.
At Mother Hen, we see this every year. Whether you are navigating the complexities of neurodivergent parenting support or simply trying to keep the peace during a major family transition, mid-July is often when we need a "reset" the most.
That’s exactly why we’ve planned our Family Fun Day on July 18th at East Lake Park. It’s more than just a day in the park; it’s a dedicated space for your family to reconnect, regulate, and prepare for the second half of the year.
Why We All Need a Summer Reset
Summer is often marketed as a time of endless relaxation, but for many parents: especially those managing ADHD or sensory processing needs: the lack of structure can actually be quite stressful. Transitions are hard. Moving from the rigid schedule of the school year into the "choose your own adventure" style of summer can leave children (and parents) feeling untethered.
A "Summer Reset" is a conscious pause. It’s an opportunity to ask: How are we doing? Is our current rhythm working? How can we strengthen our connection before the back-to-school rush begins?
The Importance of Connection Over Perfection
We often get caught up in the "doing" of summer: the camps, the trips, the playdates. But the most vital part of a child's development is the "being." For families looking for family coaching for transitions, we always start with one core principle: connection is the foundation of cooperation.
When children feel seen, heard, and connected to their caregivers, their nervous systems regulate. This is especially true for neurodivergent children who may struggle with emotional regulation. A day spent playing, laughing, and simply being together at a place like East Lake Park can do more for a child's mental well-being than a dozen scheduled activities.
Social Emotional Learning (SEL) Activities You Can Do Today
You don't have to wait until July 18th to start your reset. You can begin integrating social emotional learning activities for children into your daily routine right now. SEL isn't just a buzzword; it’s a set of skills that help children understand their emotions, feel empathy for others, and make responsible decisions.
Here are a few low-pressure ways to bring SEL into your home this week:
- The "Feelings Forecast": Every morning, ask everyone to give a weather report for their mood. Are they "Sunny with a chance of giggles"? Or "Cloudy with a bit of a grump-storm"? This helps children name their emotions without judgment.
- The Gratitude Scavenger Hunt: While walking through the neighborhood or even just your backyard, find three things that make you feel happy or calm.
- Creative Expression: Use resources like our Children’s Feelings Journal to let your kids draw or write about their "tricky-grumpy" days. Sometimes, it’s easier to put a feeling on paper than it is to say it out loud.
Supporting the Neurodivergent Mind
For parents navigating the unique challenges of ADHD or autism, summer can feel like a marathon with no finish line. We understand that parent coaching for ADHD requires a specialized, compassionate approach.
One of the best things you can do for a neurodivergent child during a summer transition is to provide "predictable flexibility." They need to know what’s coming next, but they also need the grace to move at their own pace.
At Mother Hen, our neurodivergent parenting support focuses on the whole family. We don't just look at the child's behavior; we look at the environment, the communication styles, and the parental support system. Our upcoming Family Fun Day is designed to be an inclusive environment where every child: regardless of their developmental path: can feel successful.
Navigating Transitions with "Two Hugs and Two Kisses"
Transitions aren't just about seasons; they are often about family structure. Many of the families we serve are navigating life across two homes. This transition can be particularly heavy during the summer months when schedules shift between parents.
Our founder, Natoya Cole Evans, wrote Two Hugs and Two Kisses specifically to help children like Winston navigate these changes. It’s a heartwarming reminder that while homes may change, love remains constant. Using stories like Winston's can be a powerful part of family coaching for transitions, giving children the language they need to process their reality.
Count Down to July 18: Family Fun Day at East Lake Park!
We are only 8 days away! If you haven't marked your calendar yet, now is the time.
Why East Lake Park?
Located in the heart of Atlanta, East Lake Park offers the perfect backdrop for a summer reset. With its beautiful green spaces and community vibe, it’s the ideal spot to escape the digital noise and plug back into your family.
What to Expect:
- Connection: Meet other families who are navigating similar journeys.
- Resources: Learn more about our Parental Coaching and School Advocacy services.
- Fun: Games, laughter, and a chance for the kids to burn off that mid-summer energy in a supportive environment.
- Support: Our team will be there to answer questions about our mental health services and educational resources.
Event Details:
- Date: July 18, 2026
- Location: East Lake Park, Atlanta, GA
- Time: [Check our registration page for specific times!]
- Cost: Free to attend, but registration is encouraged!
Join the Mother Hen Community
At Mother Hen (2 Mother Hens), we believe that no family should have to navigate developmental, educational, or emotional challenges alone. Whether you need a professional advocate for an upcoming IEP meeting or a compassionate coach to help manage ADHD at home, we are here for you.
We assess. We equip. We advocate.
But most importantly, we celebrate the family unit. We hope to see you at East Lake Park on July 18th for a day of rest, reset, and real connection.
Register for Family Fun Day Here!
Questions? Reach out to us at info@2motherhens.com or call 470-242-1235. You can also visit us at 1372 Peachtree Street NE, Suite 113, Atlanta, GA.
