7 Fun Ways to Stay Connected with Families Over the Summer

Summer doesn't have to mean losing touch with families. In this post, you'll discover 7 easy, low-cost ways to build trust, boost communication, and keep families connected to your child care program—even when school is out. Plus: free activity ideas, event suggestions, and a downloadable checklist!

Why Summer Family Engagement Matters

Whether families stay enrolled year-round or take a seasonal break, summer is a golden opportunity to nurture parent relationships that boost trust and long-term loyalty.

1. Build Connection with Summer Activity Kits

Create weekly or monthly take-home kits that blend fun with learning. These kits can be themed, seasonal, or tied to your curriculum.

Ideas to include:

• A themed book + DIY craft

• Backyard scavenger hunt

• Family journal prompt

• “Science in the Kitchen” experiment

  
  

Pro Tip: Add your center’s logo and a friendly note from the teacher—it adds a personal touch parents love.

2. Host Virtual Storytimes or Quick Parent Chats 

Stay top of mind with simple online offerings:

• 10-minute Zoom storytimes

• Mini parent workshops (e.g. “Literacy at Home” or “Preschool Prep Tips”)

• Recorded video messages from teachers

Key Takeaway: Virtual connections keep families engaged—without adding to your team’s summer workload.

3. Create a “Summer Memory Wall” 

Encourage families to share photos of their summer fun: picnics, trips, or crafts from home.

Post them in:

• Your parent app

• A summer-themed bulletin board

• Social media (with permission)

Why it works: Shared moments help families feel like part of your community—even when they’re away.

4. Keep Parents in the Loop with Monthly Summer Newsletters 

Use your newsletter to:

• Share upcoming events

• Highlight student/teacher spotlights

• Offer at-home learning tips

• Include a “Try This at Home” activity

  
  

Want a quick win? Add a call-to-action, such as “Send us a photo of your child’s summer artwork.”

5. Invite Families to Casual Summer Events 

Make in-person events simple and social:

• Popsicles in the Park: Just bring a cooler and some name tags!

• Outdoor Art Day: Let kids paint big with watercolors or chalk.

• Water Play Afternoon: Invite families to join in or watch.

Pro Tip: These events double as community-builders and touchpoints for retention.

6. Send Home Low-Cost, Hands-On Activities 

Easy-to-assemble activities keep your program present in family routines:

• Nature walk checklist

• DIY sensory bin guide

• “Letter to My Future Self” worksheet

• Kindness Challenge calendar

7. Keep the Conversation Going—Even in the Off-Season 

Send mid-summer check-ins via your parent communication platform:

• “We miss you!” notes

• Photos or videos from the classroom

• Gentle reminders about fall re-enrollment deadlines

Remember: Consistency builds connection. Even a brief message shows families they’re not forgotten.

Strong Parent-Teacher Communication = Better Outcomes

• Boosts child confidence

• Supports routine consistency

• Strengthens trust

• Builds long-term loyalty

By maintaining simple, intentional touchpoints with families, you’re not just improving summer engagement—you’re strengthening your program’s reputation and retention year-round.

Experience the benefits of IntelliKid Systems at your own pace. See for yourself—click below to start your self-guided demo.