This month, we are welcoming Peyton Gray, our newest intern rocker, to the team. So as we always do, we asked her a few questions to get to know her better! She’s a student at The University of Texas in Austin majoring in journalism. Peyton is passionate about thoughtful communication, creative collaboration and building meaningful connections through media and storytelling. We love that!
What is the biggest misconception about marketing today?
I think a common myth is that good products will sell themselves and success will happen immediately, which I believe overlooks human behavior and crowded markets. Marketing is even more important today than it ever has been because brands must work to intentionally capture their audience and build trust.
What advice would Peyton Gray give to her younger self?
If I could talk to my younger self, I would tell her that everything works out, even if it doesn’t happen exactly how you planned it!
What is one of the biggest lessons you’ve learned so far at school?
College has taught me how important it is to build a strong community. Finding people you can relax, study, work and have fun with creates a space where you not only survive but begin to thrive.
What does good brand strategy look like?
A good brand strategy begins with a steady and strong brand identity. Using this as an anchor, a brand can establish a clear presence and cohesive image.
If you could be anywhere in the world right now where would it be?
I would be in Paris, France! I visited the summer after my senior year of high school with my mom and was lucky enough to return for the Paris Olympics the following year — I am already planning my trip back after I graduate and CAN’T WAIT!
If you could go to dinner with one person living or dead who would it be?
I would have dinner with Princess Diana. Aside from the fact that I think she is absolutely the most elegant woman of all time, I really admire her strong character and love for those around her.
If you could describe Peyton Gray in three words what would they be?
I would describe myself as optimistic, determined and creative.
Tell us about a major milestone in your life?
One major milestone in my life was leading the recruitment of a pledge class of 95 members into my sorority at UT. I learned so much about leadership, relationship building, analytics and teamwork all while making 95 freshmen comfortable and confident in a new place!
From your perspective, how does Front Porch Marketing differentiate itself from other marketing companies?
What drew me into Front Porch Marketing, and what I believe sets the company apart, is how personable and intentional each member of the team is. Even in my interview I could tell how much each member was valued and supported, making me eager to join and get started. Front Porch is collaborative, intentional and genuinely people-oriented.
Stepping onto the “Front Porch” for the first time, I knew I was entering a space dedicated to storytelling and strategy. But as I look back on my internship, I realize that the most impactful lessons didn’t come from a textbook; they came from watching how brands live and breathe in the real world. As well as personal branding and connection.
Marketing isn’t just about the “what” it’s about the “who” and the “why.” Reflecting on my time here, three things stand out as the foundation of everything I’ve learned: the intentionality of branding, the depth of brand loyalty, and the necessity of knowing your audience.
Branding: More Than Just a Logo
During my time at Front Porch, I’ve seen firsthand that a brand is a promise. It’s the consistent thread that runs through every social media post, every email, and every client interaction. A brand isn’t a static image; it is a living reputation.
I’ve learned that successful branding requires:
Vulnerability: Being honest about a brand’s journey.
Consistency: Delivering the same message across every touchpoint.
Clarity: Knowing exactly what strengths and weaknesses you solve for your client.
When a brand is built with intention, it stops being a service and starts being a solution.
The Weight of Branding and Loyalty
We often talk about “getting” customers, but my internship taught me the importance of “keeping” them. Brand loyalty is the difference between a one-time transaction and a lifelong advocate. I’ve observed that the most successful clients we work with are those who don’t take their community for granted.
Loyalty is earned in the quiet moments: when a brand responds to a difficult situation with grace, or when they choose quality over a quick fix. During my time here at Front Porch, I’ve realized that people don’t just stay loyal to a product; they stay loyal to how a brand makes them feel. When you stay true to your brand promise, your audience rewards you with the most valuable currency in marketing: trust.
The Art of Connection to your Audience
If branding is the “voice,” then the audience is the “listener.” One of my biggest takeaways from Front Porch is that you cannot speak effectively if you haven’t first listened.
True audience connection involves:
Data with Soul: Looking beyond the numbers to see the people behind the clicks.
Empathy: Understanding the daily challenges and joys of the consumer.
Evolution: Recognizing that as your audience grows and changes, your strategy must as well.
Marketing is a two-way conversation. My internship here at Front Porch has shown me that the “lucky” brands are just the ones that have done the hard work of truly understanding the person on the other side of the screen. Personal branding needs the priority of connection and loyalty.
Final Reflectionson Branding and Connection
As I wrap up this chapter, I’m leaving with a new perspective on how businesses connect with the world. Authentic marketing doesn’t shout at the crowd; it speaks to the individual.
The “Front Porch” philosophy isn’t just about business; it’s about building a space where communication is genuine with branding and connection to your audience. These are the lessons that will guide me long after I’ve left the porch.
This week, we’re welcoming Sydney McKinney to our team as our newest rocker! She is our new guru of problem-solving and detail, and who doesn’t love that! Sydney says she is thrilled to join the Front Porch team and looks forward to helping make everyone’s life a little easier every day.
Sydney sat down with us on the Porch for a chat:
1. What is the biggest misconception about about the work you do?
The biggest misconception is that all I do is color code and look at a calendar.
3. What advice would you give to younger Sydney McKinney?
Don’t worry so much and trust in the Lord.
4. What is one of the biggest lessons you’ve learned in your career?
When asked to do something outside of your comfort zone in a job, always say yes. You never know what opportunities might come out of it.
5. What does good work team look like?
A team that communicates well and can rely on each other.
6. If you could be anywhere in the world right now, where would it be?
Sydney, Australia. I have always wanted to visit the location matching my name!
7. If you could go to dinner with one person, living or dead, who would it be?
I would have dinner with my grandma. She passed away when I was too young to have taken advantage of conversations with her so I would love to be able to chat with her now as an adult!
8. If you could describe Sydney McKinney in three words, what would they be?
Motivated. Planner. Friend.
9. Tell us about a major milestone in your life.
Becoming a mom in the last year has been a huge milestone and I am loving every second of it. My daughter is a true joy and an “easy” baby, so I have been so blessed in that regard as I navigate the new season of motherhood.
10. What is a fun fact about you?
I have been to all 50 states!
What’s coming up for Sydney McKinney on The Porch?
Well, we sure hope that Sydney gets to see Sydney sooner than later! We’re super excited to have her expertise on our team, as our client roster continues to grow and we take on more and more challenging assignments. Welcome Sydney!
This year is a significant business anniversary for Front Porch Marketing! ‘Cause when you are fifteen … yep, had to … the lyrics from the icon and brilliant, bad a** storyteller and business woman Taylor Swift. We are honored and humbled to be celebrating our 15th year in business beginning this March. Which has all our marketing and branding wheels spinning.
What’s Significant About 2026?
It is not only our 15th anniversary. We have a new client who has engaged us to develop a brand audit, brand architecture and a 2026 marketing plan. Oh, and 2026 marks this client’s 30th year in business. Another significant business anniversary! Well, celebrations and events are always top of mind on the Porch. So, in my best football mom voice, Let’s go!
Looking for Ways to Rock Your Significant Business Birthday?
Whether it is this year or next, Front Porch Marketing can help. First of all, remember all things you do as a business should be in your brand voice and colors. Next, build on traditions and the vernacular you have established — for your brand and within your company culture — with your clients and advocates. Keep doing more of what makes you YOU!
Ready to celebrate your significant business anniversary? Look up the traditional and modern gifts and words associated with the significant year celebrations. For 30, for example, it is pearls, diamonds, lilies and other delightful 30th anniversary attributes.
Idea Starters For Your Significant Day Celebration
The big day to celebrate in 2026, for our current client, would be the 30th of every month starting in the month that they were founded for twelve months • Social media post related to the anniversary • Gift in line with 30 years to client’s advocates or to the founding client • Same to current and possibly prospective clients
Nonprofit tie-in • Donating $3,000 to a nonprofit near and dear to the brand or some special philanthropic tie-in • Asking for submissions directed to nonprofits, asking why their nonprofit should get $3,000
Team recognition • Special 30th anniversary branded gift • Celebration event for team • Volunteering together for 30 hours during the anniversary year
Short-term logo with 30th anniversary tagline or “30” incorporated into the design
30th anniversary website banner
Updated social media timeline covers and/or avatars
Handwritten notes with a special gift — or no gift — to those who helped you start the business or who are key to keeping you motivated to think differently. Recognize those who are always propping you up throughout the year
We Thank YOU For Helping Us Reach This Significant Year
It is not lost on us that we could not have done these past fifteen years without you. We could not have done this without team members present and past, and those that are yet to come. To those team members who we pull in when we have overflow or need special expertise: Thank you.
To those who refer us to other business leaders and contacts? We give our endless gratitude. To the champions of Front Porch Marketing who ask us to speak at events or are always at the willing to talk to clients looking for additional expertise and resources.
We are grateful for you all. Humbled and blessed always. Our team is honored to work with those we love for whom we love while taking care of our loves.
There would be no Front Porch Marketing without all y’all.
Before we knew it, 2025 came to an end. A year that was filled with opportunities, challenges, transitions and even moments of uncertainty. Looking back, it’s clear that these obstacles provided immense amounts of growth for our Rockers, both professionally and personally. The gratitude we feel for our clients and one another far outweigh any stress or uncertainty that we faced along the way.
Each of the following reflections tells a story of resilience, gratitude and progress, highlighting the meaningful growth and the trends that defined 2025, both within our work and in our personal lives.
Chief Rocker Julie Porter
Personally, this year was full of blessings. Andrew, my son, graduated with his MBA from Rollins College. We are so proud! Audrey, my daughter, continued to excel in school and proclaimed a love of acting and a hobby of being a soccer goalie.
Professionally, our team said goodbye to an important team member but gained a rock star. We had interns move on to amazing things and welcomed new ones. We were blessed with new clients and remained honored to continue on with our current clients. I gained new connections through joining groups including Success Champion Networking and Dream Team Dallas. I am motivated now more than ever to grow our business and brand.
We had time to give back our resources to important events including the Jesuit Women’s Auxiliary Christmas Bazaar and the Grant Halliburton Foundation’s Beacon of Hope Luncheon and Hope Party, among other things.
Industry wide, folks were dabbling in AI. Those that knew how to embrace it, we were grateful. And a few clients and prospects that were just getting on board, we were honored to educate them on the benefits.
Reflecting on 2025 and looking forward to the coming year are critical to me as a business leader. As a business, we will continue our focus — providing marketing plans and strategies and spot-on execution are paramount. We will continue to work with those we love, for those we love while taking care of our loves.
Cheers to the new year! I am honored to be working with this rockin’ team for our amazing clients.
Client Relationship Rocker Nancy Scott
As I look back on 2025, I’m grateful for a year that pushed me, taught me and reminded me why I love the work I do. I had the chance to partner with some incredible clients across industries and help them fine tune messaging and branding. Each project felt meaningful — I’m proud of the work created with my fellow Rockers and clients.
On the home front, my three daughters continue to amaze me. I watched them grow into themselves more, becoming more confident and more aware of who they are. We faced big and small challenges head-on and together. In starting over, we leaned on each other and discovered a kind of strength and courage I’ll never forget.
As we wrap up the year, I’m thankful for the people and moments that made 2025 what it was. Mostly, I’m grateful for my daughters and the community around us. Here’s to moving into 2026 with clarity, gratitude and hope!
Rock Collector Alison Moreno
2025 was an incredible year both personally and professionally. Watching my son graduate from high school and sending him off to college is sad and wonderful all at the same time. Witnessing my daughter become strong and independent both physically and emotionally, as she finished 3rd in Powerlifting Regionals before finishing out her sophomore year has made me so proud.
This year has also been a great opportunity for me as I have been able to grow and learn so much within the bookkeeping and accounting world. I have been able to work with more business owners in different industries that have bright dreams for their companies, and I have been able to help them work towards those goals. I hope that 2026 offers more of the same opportunities and progress as I push myself beyond my previous boundaries and expand my expertise.
Media Rocker Christine Finnegan
My year-end reflections for 2025 focus on reviewing my personal growth, career milestones — such as new skills and leadership achievements — health habits, and financial goals. I emphasized the importance of deep, intentional planning rather than merely “doing more” to achieve true fulfillment. My actions are always guided by self-awareness and resilience, ensuring they align with my personal values and maintain focus. As I look back on the year, I’ve realized that my happiness stems primarily from my two sons. Knowing that they are well and thriving brings me immense joy and fulfillment.
Swiss Army Rock Lea Ann Allen
2025 was a year full of Blursdays. Blursday, in case you are not familiar, is the day it is when you don’t know what day it is. All in all, 2025 has been utter chaos. But amid all the chaos I could always count on my colleagues at Front Porch Marketing. They are steady, kind and uplifting.
In all other ways, I am grateful this year is over. And I’m definitely hoping next year is less like a dumpster fire and more like a warm cup of cocoa with extra marshmallows. Keep your fingers crossed.
Website Rocker Vicky Gouge
It’s hard to believe we’re heading into 2026. My son just turned 12, and it feels like only yesterday I was holding him for the first time. While I love watching him grow into a thoughtful, capable young man, it’s bittersweet how quickly the years seem to pass. Time has a way of speeding up as we get older, and moments like this make that especially clear.
Looking back, 2025 was a steady and meaningful year. I was fortunate to travel with friends, spend a lot of quality time with family, and create new memories with Charlie along the way. Those experiences are what truly anchored the year for me.
From a business perspective, the year brought its share of challenges. The rapid emergence of AI tools introduced uncertainty, and a shifting economy made decision-making slower for many consumers. Even so, the year remained a positive one overall — full of learning, adaptation, and forward momentum.
Intern Sophie Leos
As I reflect back on the past year, I am so thankful for the opportunities that presented challenges and allowed me to grow professionally and as a person. As a senior in college at the University of Arkansas, I am approaching some of my final months as a student. Looking back even just a year ago, I feel like a whole new person.
This year was filled with various internships including my current one with Front Porch Marketing, which has given me much clarity as to my future career path. Front Porch has allowed me to learn from inspiring marketing professionals and gain numerous new skills, along with a vast amount of knowledge about the marketing world. I feel so much more prepared to enter the workforce and confident in the value that I can add to a team.
I am so grateful to everyone at Front Porch who has given me the space to learn and grow while also providing me with valuable guidance along the way. 2025 was so fruitful, and I cannot wait to see what’s in store for the next year!
Intern Riley Fry
Over the course of this year, there have been challenges to face, obstacles to overcome, goals achieved and unforgettable memories made with friends and family. To 2025, all I can say is thank you for shaping me into the person I am today, strengthening me through difficult moments and reminding me of what I’m capable of. Being a part of Front Porch Marketing has truly uplifted me and taught me more than I could have ever imagined, both personally and professionally. Every experience, lesson and connection has played a role in my growth. Because of 2025, I’m stepping into the new year feeling grateful, confident and excited for what’s ahead.
Reflections on 2025, From All of Us on the Porch
Thank you for being part of a year that challenged us, shaped us and helped us grow into the best versions of ourselves. As we step into the new year, we do so with gratitude for our people, our clients and the community that continues to support and inspire us.
Here’s to growth, clarity and showing up for one another.
Stay curious.
Stay kind.
Keep rocking.
With hearts full of love and excitement, we can’t wait to see what this new year will bring.
This month, we are welcoming Riley Fry, our newest intern rocker, to the team. We love asking our new employees a few questions to get to know them better! Riley is a student at The University of Arkansas studying communications and journalism. Riley is particularly excited about storytelling, media strategy, and empowering others through effective communication while she sits with us on the Porch.
What is the biggest misconception about marketing today?
One of the biggest misconceptions about marketing today is that it’s only about advertising or posting on social media. Marketing is about understanding people, using research and data to meet their needs, and building lasting relationships. It’s not just about selling a product — it’s about creating real connections and value for customers
What advice would Riley Fry give to her younger self?
No matter what, everything always works out the way it’s meant to. It’s easy to get caught up in the future or dwell on the past, but today is the only thing you can truly control. One day, you’ll look back and wish you had taken a breath and appreciated the moment you’re in right now.
What is one of the biggest lessons you’ve learned so far at school?
Nobody has figured it out. It’s easy to feel intimidated or compare yourself to others, but comparison only steals your joy. True confidence comes from within — and while it may sound cliché, sometimes you just have to fake it until you make it.
What does good brand strategy look like?
I think of a brand strategy as the heart of a company. It defines who you are, what you stand for, and how you connect with your audience. More than just a logo or design, a strong brand strategy combines your mission, values, and understanding of your customers to create a clear and consistent identity. It highlights what makes you unique and tells your story in a way that builds trust and lasting loyalty.
If you could be anywhere in the world right now where would it be?
I’d love to be back in Maui, Hawaii. The summer I spent there with my family was unforgettable — it’s the most gorgeous and peaceful place on earth. The locals are so kind and genuine, and my favorite thing to do there is just sit on the beach and enjoy the calm.
If you could go to dinner with one person living or dead who would it be?
I’d choose Dakota Johnson. I admire her as an actress and love her sense of style. She has an incredible taste in fashion, home decor, and architecture. She’s also worked with so many talented people, and grew up in a famous family, I’m sure she has some amazing stories to share.
If you could describe Riley Fry in three words what would they be?
I’d describe myself as detailed, creative, and optimistic.
Tell us about a major milestone in your life?
A major milestone for me was coming to school at the University of Arkansas. Growing up in Houston, Texas, I had never experienced living in such a beautiful state or meeting so many new people. Moving here pushed me out of my comfort zone and helped me grow both personally and professionally.
From your perspective, how does Front Porch Marketing differentiate itself from other marketing companies?
Front Porch creates a warm, close-knit environment that extends to both the clients and team. Their focus goes beyond delivering exceptional work — they’re dedicated to building lasting relationships with clients who quickly start to feel like family.
This fall, we are welcoming Sophie Leos, our newest intern rocker, to the team. So as we always do, we asked her a few questions to get to know her better! She’s a student at The University of Arkansas studying marketing and management. Sophie is eager to further build her skills and learn more about marketing, client relations and strategic writing on the Porch.
What is the biggest misconception about marketing today?
That the only goal of marketing is to sell a product or service. Marketing is so much more than that, it’s about building a personality, message and values for a company that resonate with its audience and foster real connections.
What advice would Sophie Leos give to her younger self?
I would tell her to always trust her gut. This is something I try to live by in life, making decisions that feel right for me rather than relying on the approval of others.
What is one of the biggest lessons you’ve learned so far at school?
That communication is one of the most valuable skills a person can have in every aspect of life. It is the foundation for understanding and for building meaningful connections with the people around us.
What does good brand strategy look like?
Good brand strategy focuses on differentiating your brand from competitors while creating a strong brand identity. A successful strategy ensures people recognize your brand while also connecting with its values, message and personality.
If you could be anywhere in the world right now where would it be?
Venice, Italy. I had the opportunity to study abroad in Paderno del Grappa last summer, just an hour outside of Venice. My time in Italy was one of the most enriching experiences of my life. I loved immersing myself in a new culture, exploring beautiful cities and gaining new perspectives.
If you could go to dinner with one person living or dead who would it be?
I’d choose Selena Gomez. I think she is such an inspiration for women around the world. She comes from a humble background and became incredibly successful from acting and singing to having her own beauty brand.
If you could describe Sophie Leos in three words what would they be?
I would describe myself as curious, motivated and creative.
Tell us about a major milestone in your life?
A major milestone in my life was coming to college at the University of Arkansas. Being from St. Louis, I moved five hours away from home and did not know many people at the school. It has been an incredible period of growth for me and I’ve learned so much about myself as well as the world around me!
From your perspective, how does Front Porch Marketing differentiate itself from other marketing companies?
Front Porch stands out from other marketing companies by emphasizing story-telling and building long-term relationships. Front Porch takes the time to understand their client’s specific needs and then implements marketing strategies that drive results and form meaningful connections.
This summer, we’re once again welcoming high school interns from Ursuline: Emma Gomar and Sophie Stewart. We love paying it forward every summer by sharing the wonderful world of marketing with the next generation. As we usually do, we asked Emma and Sophie a few questions so our readers could get to know them a little better.
Emma Gomar:
What makes you want to have a career in marketing?
I consider myself a creative person and I am very interested in studying business in college, marketing seems like a perfect combination of the two!
What is one of the biggest lessons you have learned so far in your life?
One of the biggest lessons I have learned is to never give up, even when things get tough.
If you could describe yourself in three words what would they be?
I would describe myself as musical, friendly, and hard-working.
What are your goals for your time at Front Porch Marketing?
I am hoping to learn about and explore the world of marketing as well as develop useful life skills. I am also Excited to be working on projects and learn more about working with clients!
If you could go to dinner with one person living or dead, who would it be?
I would go to dinner with William Shakespeare. I would ask him about his plays and his thoughts on how they impacted current plays.
What is a fun fact about you?
I play piano and sometimes I like to compose my own music!
Sophie Stewart:
What makes you want to have a career in marketing?
I am a very creative and an extroverted person who loves social media. I find it extremely interesting the different ways to engage others to make content and products more valuable, and I want to learn more about understanding customer behavior.
What is one of the biggest lessons you have learned so far in your life?
One of the biggest lessons I have learned in life is the extent to which your attitude can impact not only yourself, but also your circumstances and the people around you. Keeping a positive attitude and an open mind can allow you to get way farther in life in terms of overcoming problems and will improve your life in all aspects!
If you could describe yourself in three words what would they be?
In three words, I would describe myself as outgoing, positive, and diligent.
What are your goals for your time at Front Porch Marketing?
I am looking forward to exploring my interests and getting a hands-on experience in the marketing field. I have always been fascinated by business, so I am excited to leave this fun experience with a stronger foundation in marketing and a better idea of my strengths!
If you could go to dinner with one person living or dead, who would it be?
I would go to dinner with Suni Lee because I have always loved watching gymnastics, especially in the Olympics, and I find it so inspirational how she not only bounced back from a serious injury, but then went to the Olympics after she was told she wouldn’t be able to.
What is a fun fact about you?
I lived abroad in Asia for almost 6 years growing up, living in China and Singapore, which gave me an opportunity to travel to so many new places and be immersed into different cultures!
We hope Emma and Sophie learn a little more about their future professions at Front Porch Marketing. We’ve certainly enjoyed working with them!
This week, we welcome Nancy Scott to our team as our newest marketing rocker! She says she is excited to rock on the Porch because she loves the idea of building business through real conversations and trusted relationships. The Porch approach — keeping it real, collaborative, and client-focused — is the kind of environment where Nancy really thrives.
Nancy sat down with us on the Porch for a chat:
1. What drove your decision to be a marketer?
What drew me to marketing is the perfect combination of creativity and problem-solving. I love understanding people — their needs, their motivations, and behaviors and creating strategies to connect brands and people. The problem-solving part of me loves to crunch numbers, comb through data for insights and make charts!
2. What is the biggest misconception about marketing today?
That great marketing isn’t about social media — viral content, influencers, likes, and flashy ads. It’s about attracting and retaining customers by delivering value, building trust, and creating meaningful connections that lead to long-term brand loyalty.
3. What advice would you give to younger Nancy Scott?
Trust your instincts — and don’t be afraid to make bold moves.
4. What is one of the biggest lessons you’ve learned in your career?
Things shift — campaigns stumble, tools change, projects get delayed, teams restructure — but strong relationships, collaboration, and foundational marketing skills endure.
5. What does good marketing strategy look like?
I love this question! Good strategy is intentional, based in data, and focused on building relationships over time. It’s about knowing your audience and delivering the right message with purpose and consistency.
6. If you could be anywhere in the world right now, where would it be?
Italy — hands down. It’s on my bucket list, and I can’t wait to explore it someday. Plus, I’m Italian… so it just feels right.
7. If you could go to dinner with one person, living or dead, who would it be?
My Italian grandmother, affectionately called “Little Nana.” She spent countless hours in the kitchen creating incredible Italian meals. I’d love to sit at her table again and get all her recipes.
8. If you could describe Nancy Scott in three words, what would they be?
Loyal. Honest. Mom.
9. Tell me about a major milestone in your life.
Likely a common answer but becoming a mother to my three daughters is truly the most extraordinary milestone in my life.
10. What is a fun fact about you?
I make the best chocolate chip cookies. Seriously — ask anyone who’s had one.
What’s coming up for Nancy Scott on The Porch?
Well, we sure hope it’s sharing some of those famous chocolate chip cookies, for sure! We’re super excited to have Nancy Scott’s expertise on our team, as our client roster continues to grow and we take on more and more challenging assignments. Welcome Nancy!
Working parents are both rejoicing and feeling dread right now. Spring officially sprung on Thursday, March 20, bringing longer days, warmer nights and blooming flowers. Sure, we’re ushering in more time outside to enjoy nature, but for working parents, it also signals the end of the school year is near. Cue the panic as your thoughts turn to keeping school-aged kids entertained all summer — and figuring out how to pay for it.
Flexible Schedules Help Working Parents
One silver lining of COVID was the increase of flexible work schedules. For some, that means a fully remote environment, while others enjoy a hybrid model, splitting time between the office and home. Some workplaces even allow flexible hours, helping parents coordinate summer schedules and sharing childcare responsibilities more effectively.
Even with the most flexible work setups, the challenge remains — kids at home needing entertainment and work that still needs to be done. So, how do working parents navigate summer?
Set Yourself Up for Success, Working Parents
Start by getting organized. Create a summer activity spreadsheet, structuring it by week, and begin filling it with any pre-planned events. Maybe you’ve already blocked time off for a family vacation or a week at the grandparents’ house. Whatever the case, start with a realistic overview of the dates and gaps you need to fill.
Next, establish a budget. Some camps, especially full-day and overnight options, can be costly, even if you have two working parents in the family. Determine what works for your finances and commit to staying within it.
Now it’s time to explore your local camp options. Chat with your kids about their interests, connect with other parents for recommendations and start your online research. From recreational sports leagues to summer art programs, day camps and overnight camps there most likely isn’t a shortage of options. You might also consider hiring a summer nanny or a high schooler in your neighborhood who is great with kids and looking to make some extra money.
At this stage, start building your list. Make sure to include dates, costs and priorities. Determine what fits within the weeks you need coverage, and your budget.
Other Considerations When Planning Your Kid’s Summer
Alternate weeks of coverage. To cut costs or allow for unstructured downtime, some families with a work-from-home parent opt for weeks with no scheduled activities, giving kids the freedom to play at home.
Opt for half-day activities. Another great way to save money while giving your kids the best of both worlds. An opportunity for structured play with peers for part of the day, followed by enjoying the comforts of home for the rest of the day.
Book early. Many camps offer early bird discounts so the sooner you start researching and securing spots, the more budget-friendly your options will be.
Drop-in activities. Nomatter how well you plan, unexpected work meetings or obligations can arise. Consider camps that offer flexible, last-minute enrollment. They may cost more, but they’re a valuable option to have in your back pocket.
Be Ready to Pivot or Reschedule Plans
No matter how much planning you do as a working parent, unexpected changes are bound to pop up in your kids’ summer activities. Keep in mind that summer is meant to be slower paced, a time for relaxation and making memories with family and friends. It’s okay if every moment isn’t scheduled, and hearing “I’m bored” now and then is inevitable. But by following a few of these tips, you can minimize stress, embrace the unpredictable and make this summer one to remember.
