Originally published in 2012, updated with new ideas in May 2026.
Here we are at the end of yet another school year with the summer stretched out in front of us. Summer is such an incredible gift! It gives us freedom from schedules, but also gives some liminal space for growth and development. That’s why I love the idea of summer goals for kids, helping them create their own framework for how they want to progress in the summertime. I’ve found that when kids help create their own goals and plans for the summer, they become so much more motivated and invested in how they spend their time.
Growing up in the Eyre family, we whipped up big posters filled with our “summer goals” at the beginning of each summer. It was a way for our parents to get us going on learning and progressing…and also earning some extra cash. Like all good ideas my parents had, Dave and I adopted this practice hook, line and sinker. Each summer as soon as the last school bell rings, we sit down together and write out summer goals…and make an exact plan as to how to accomplish them.
Why We Set Summer Goals for Kids
When all my kids were home, my favorite part of the school year was when the last school bell rang. Oh boy, was I ever ready for some freedom. And my kids were too.
But as much as I loved that freedom, we also needed some structure. So we created a bit of it each morning for all of our sanity. Mornings were our time to work toward becoming, and learning and growing. Setting summer goals gives kids a chance to think about what they love, and how to develop their own skills over the summer. Goals give our kids something to really work hard toward.
Sure, there needs to be a balance between freedom and structure in the summer. But I found that when we set aside each morning for working on goals, we all felt so much better by the time the afternoon freedom came around.
The way we do these goals has changed over the years. But the idea is always the same: think hard about the ways you’d like to progress and grow, and set goals to help you get there.
The Five Categories of Summer Goals
Of course, the sky is the limit when you think of things you want to do better at, and that expanse of possibilities can be daunting. So we decided to narrow it down and have our kids make goals in five main categories. They are the “five-facets” we talk about in interviews:
- Mental
- Spiritual
- Physical
- Social
- Emotional
Usually we have “bubble charts” in all sizes where you fill in all the little circles when you finish a task:
We have done everything from having the kids write those goals on big posters in the kitchen to hanging them on the door of their bedrooms so they won’t miss them.
Then the kids get going doing all that good stuff.
One year we did calendars to mark off as we went along.
Whatever works for your family is what is the best idea!
How We Avoid Summer Nagging
I am a huge fan of summer. The only thing I have found that I don’t like about summer is how sometimes I feel like I turn into a big nagger to help the kids stay on task.
Becoming a “big nagger” is not part of what I daydream about when I think of summer.
That’s one thing I love so much about these goals.
We have time set aside each day where it was just part of the day to get those suckers done. Everyone knows that they need to work on their summer goals before they do anything else, so they get to work.
It isn’t a perfect plan, of course. Some summers work better than others.
But those kids work and are productive before they set out to roam the neighborhood.
And I love it.
How to Create a Summer Plan for Kids
Sometimes kids look at the big overwhelming picture of what they want to do, but don’t know which steps to take to get there.
So one year, motivated by my sister Saren who wrangled summer goals beautifully with her kids, we realized we needed to create weekly schedules to go with those goals.
That way the kids could see their progress, and I could keep them accountable when I saw their charts filled out.
We pumped out weekly schedules as a companion to those goals.
We printed out a new checklist for each week.
And boy howdy how that “plan” changed things.
I think sometimes kids are so motivated by each other’s progression.
You can easily create your own printable charts or bubble trackers according to what your kids think is cool. Or have AI whip something up for you.
Reward Ideas for Summer Goals
Of course, the real reward for completing summer goals is a sense of accomplishment and personal growth. But kids can’t see that physically. And honestly, summer can be a great time for kids to “earn” things they really want and/or need. Growing up we usually had money attached as the reward for accomplishing our goals.
In our family it’s changed each year.
Sometimes money is attached. Other times, time is the reward (late-nights, dates with parents…back when that worked!, etc.) And sometimes the reward is something they really wanted (clothes, toys, etc.)
Some years the reward is a special family trip.
One year the kids all worked together to earn something they all wanted (Rockband).
One year when the reward was cash, they get to double that cash if they get every single thing checked off every single day each week.
I wish I had pictures of the stars in their eyes when we told them that little nugget of information because they are all in need of money right at about this point of the summer.
Why Kids Thrive with Structure in the Summer
I love summer goals because there is something about kids knowing expectations that does some thing so good for them. Especially if they’re the ones who make up the expectations!
Lucy is particularly into this new system.
I think all kids love to know what’s expected. They love to cross things off. They love to feel a sense of accomplishment.
Extra Tools That Help Summer Goals Work
Over the years we’ve found that a few extra systems help summer goals actually work (without constant reminding from parents).
One of our favorites is the “Job Jar” — a jar filled with small household jobs for kids to pull when they need “a little extra responsibility.” Sometimes the jobs are practical, sometimes they’re funny, but either way they help teach responsibility while keeping summer running more smoothly.
(You can read more about how our Job Jar works here.)
Some other helps that we’ve come up with through the years:
- bubble job charts – I love this idea that is SO easy when you need quick jobs done fast
- a simple oven timer – this handy dandy tool we all have in our kitchen can work miracles!
- simple weekly checklists – these changed the way we did our Saturday chores
I wrote lots more details about these and expanded on a few other ideas in my helping kids be productive in the summertime post.
There’s something about kids knowing expectations — and being able to track their progress — that helps summer feel more purposeful and less chaotic.
Over the years I’ve realized the beauty of summer goals is how it helps kids develop ownership over their own growth, routines, and choices.
Looking back now, after years of doing summer goals with kids in all different stages, I still think the magic isn’t really in the charts or rewards themselves. It’s in creating intentional systems that help kids learn responsibility, independence, and purpose while still leaving room for all the beauty and freedom summer should hold.
Those are great lists and charts. I love them!
Brilliant!!
Sounds like what we're doing this summer! Charts don't work for us- we never remember to check anything off because either it's bedtime and the chart is downstairs or it's not and the chart is upstairs and no one can ever find the pen/pencil/marker/stickers…anyway, now we have "clothespin chores" which are just basic things (get dressed, put away dishes, etc.) that the kids do each day and they move a clothespin from one side of their door hanger to the other. They also have to do 2 chore sticks (they pick from a jar) in the morning and one after lunch, and they can do more to earn more allowance money. Thanks to your inspiration we've also included goals this summer- physical, spiritual, mental, and personal. Still trying to work out how to do those without a chart and without nagging…I may just have to give in and do charts! 🙂
ooh this is so inspired, last night i thought for FHE tonight, we are going to do a summer goals & summer fun chart, and then i thought, i wish Shawni has out her summer goals up so i can see them.. and voila this morning!!!
I love the new system, i am going to try that one too!! yrah, thanks for sharing!
I'm curious as to what your journaling slips suggest? I would love to use them in my house.
love all the goals!
great idea!
where was Elle?!
tara
I'm implementing today the little extra job for not putting away after themselves. Definitely a challenge in our house:)
These are great ideas…I needed something to get my son going…he is spending too much time playing a new video game this summer. Thanks so much. Maybe a bit of bribery will help things a long.
Thanks.
I got my kid's writing ideas by typing ' journal prompt ideas' into google. The best one is 'can teach' which has loads of prompts in various categories; What is…….. What if……….What do you think……..How……I Wish………. and loads more
I so LOVE this post…I might read it again and COPY your ideas!!!
Your blog is such a blessing–I just told a swim team friend about your blog. I am not Mormon but my friend is and she has never read you–I know she will love it!!
sandy toe
I love your blog. I found you a few days ago through another blog…not sure which now…but I'm hooked now. My children are 10 mo and 2 and a half. You are teaching me a lot about being a better mom. More present, more thoughtful, more of what I want to be. I think I do a pretty good job on my own but your thoughts and actions with your children inspire me. So, thank you.
Do you have the chart checklists and jar items saved to your computer. I would LOVE to use them (without taking the time to create them) I know SO lazy! But with a new baby it's so hard finding the time. Please email me if you wouldn't mind and I would love you forever (I already do though anyway, for sure my FAVORITE blog!)
Whoops forgot my email:
heidiannbroberg@gmail.com
When I read about the extra jobs for not putting things away I said aloud, "Oh my goodness! I love you!" My kids all think I'm crazy for talking to the computer, but I really love your blog and all of your wonderful ideas (and your sister's too). Thanks so much for sharing and for not quitting even when life gets so hectic. You inspire a lot of people.
are your job and journal ideas somewhere in a list. i have started a list of my own but could sure use some new ideas. thanks, melissantraske@yahoo.com
Shawni, would you mind sharing a few of YOUR summer goals with your devoted readers?!? I need some motivation and inspiration to do some goals myself this summer. Thanks!
I LOVE this idea! Thanks so much….I've been having the same "nagging" issue and this is a perfect solution! Saren is a genius.
I saw this article about curing blindness that immediately made me think of Lucy. You've probably already heard of this, but on the off-chance you hadn't, I thought I'd share the url with you: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/health/article-2159331/Bionic-eye-help-blind-thanks-camera-glasses-wafer-chip.html?ITO=1490
We sat down yesterday to make our summer goals. I was amazed what the kids came up with as goals, on their own. I have four kids 17 to 7. Yesterday was a beautiful day in our home as I didn't have to nag, kids were begging to clean, read, and exercise. WOW! At the end of the week they will bring their charts to dad and I where we will negotiate a fair wage allowance based on what they did that week. Thanks for the great ideas.
You girls have made this goal thing into an art! Love it! So good for everyone!
I was so excited to discover your blog and the Power of Moms website yesterday. I have loved and used your parent's books on parenting for years. While some of my children are already grown and out of the house, I still have young ones at home too, and am loving the energy and ideas you share. I'm feeling inspired! Thank you!
I see some people have asked for your job and prompt lists – I would love those too if you are sharing! We are half way through summer now, and are ready for a 'reboot' on some of our goals and lists and things. carriechiles@me.com
Keep up the good work!
Thanks for the inspiration! My oldest is 5 (with an almost 3 year old and 9 month old at home as well) and I showed her your girls and their goal lists. She got so excited to make one like Lucy's. She thought her artwork was pretty cool, too. Thanks again for the idea.
I'm only 16, but I love your idea of the journal prompts! Sometimes I'm not sure what to write – where did you find yours? Thanks!!
I have instituted your ideas (job jar, journal prompt, daily must-do checklist) this week and it has been the BEST! Thank you as always for sharing your incredibly powerful tips.
Question – what font (and kerning?) did you use for your job jar and journal idea topics? Thanks!
DId you just sit down and figure out what prompts to write down for the kids? It seems like that would take a lot of time.
GREAT stuff! Dad especially likes the "plan" part! What great kids!
Hi Shawni!
I noticed CrossFit is one of Grace's goals and in your recent "family visits" post you mentioned having them do workouts with you, and I'm wondering…
Do you have a CrossIt DVD that you all enjoy? Did you make up your own workout?
I'm looking for fun ways to get more exercise with my munchkins, and I'd love to know more about your CrossFit routine.
Thanks so much for your lovely, fun, sweet blog! I don't know you, but I adore your family 🙂
xomolly
this was perfect for today as I cleaned up about 30 things they had forgotten to put away!!!
your summer goals are always a huge favourite post of mine
I love your blog!! I've never commented before, but I just thought I'd say thank you for sharing a bit of your life on here. I have a 2 year old, so some of these posts don't apply to me yet, but I have a giant notebook FILLED with goals, notes, and ideas I've collected from your posts. I basically treat 71 Toes as my ultimate motherhood masterclass ;). I love how you can feel the spirit of family love and the Gospel in every post. I hope I can approach motherhood the way you have. I admire how much effort and love you put into helping your kids become the best versions of themselves. I think you are wonderful! xoxo
I'd love to see your ideas for journal prompts and extra jobs! As always, a super inspiring post! Thanks!
Me, too!
I'm pretty sure she's posted these before, I would use the search bar to look for them!
I have a 5, 3 and 10 month old. Preschool has been out for 2 weeks and the older two definitely like a schedule. We are working on individual prayer, making the bed, and getting dressed before coming downstairs. We also talk about each day: the day of the week, the date, where daddy is (working or traveling or off for the weekend!) and what are plans are. It makes the world of difference in their lives. As they get older I know we will add to the list. Great ideas!
I love love love this idea! We've been doing a few little things around here but nothing really concrete. Though I guess with a 4, 2, and soon-to-be-newborn, they may not understand all the concepts. But I bet we could make some adaptations for our little family. And I'm definitely going to remember this whole system for when my kiddos get a little older.
do you set summer goals as an adult alongside them?
Yes, most summers I did my own summer goals and worked right alongside the kids. It’s always so good for kids to see their parents work hard on things too!
xoxo