Soaking Up The Last Summer Moments With Your Children
August 25, 2025 · by LaDonna Harrell
As August winds down and back-to-school routines begin knocking on the door, it’s easy to feel the rush of checklists, lunchboxes, and calendar reminders. But mama, before the pace picks back up, let’s take a deep breath — and make room for just a little more sunshine, a few more laughs, and those sacred, simple moments with our kids.
Because here's the truth: what you do as a mother matters eternally. The way you love, the way you lead, the way you listen — your example is shaping the heart and faith of the next generation.
The Heart of a Godly Mother
Proverbs 31 paints a beautiful portrait of a woman who fears the Lord — one who nurtures her home, provides for her family, and walks in wisdom. But that portrait isn’t made up of big, grand gestures. It’s found in the daily choices — the prayers whispered over breakfast, the hugs after a scraped knee, the Scripture read at bedtime, and the forgiveness offered freely when emotions run high.
Being a godly mother doesn’t mean being perfect. It means being present. It means living a life that points your children back to Jesus in both your highs and your humbling moments.
And while our culture often measures success by productivity, God sees the eternal impact of your time spent nurturing your children’s hearts.
Why Time Together Matters
The Bible tells us in Deuteronomy 6:6–7:
“These commandments that I give you today are to be on your hearts. Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road…”
In other words — real discipleship happens in the everyday.
When you spend time with your children, you're doing more than just entertaining them. You're planting seeds. Seeds of love, of patience, of grace. Seeds of the Gospel. You're showing them what it means to walk with Jesus not just at church, but in the living room, in the backyard, and in the car ride home.
Even when it feels small or unseen — you are building legacy.
Last-Minute End-of-Summer Ideas
If the summer days are slipping by and you’re looking for easy, meaningful ways to connect with your kids, here are some last-minute ideas that are simple to do but rich in impact:
1. Devotional & Donut Morning
Pick a day this week and set up a little devotional breakfast. Grab some donuts, open a children’s devotional (or just read a Psalm), and talk about what it means in your own words. Let your kids ask questions, even silly ones. The goal isn’t to “teach” perfectly — it’s to create a safe space to talk about God.
2. Mini Road Trip or Weekend Getaway
Even if it’s just an hour away, pack a bag and go on a little adventure. Visit a state park, stay one night in a cabin, or find a splash pad and make a day of it. Bring along a cooler, some music, and leave the to-do list behind. These spontaneous getaways become favorite core memories for kids.
3. Backyard Campout
Pitch a tent or drag some blankets outside under the stars. Tell funny stories, talk about God’s creation, and let the conversation wander. These nights are when hearts open up and bonding deepens.
4. Blessing Bags Project
Spend a morning assembling small care packages for the homeless or families in need. Include socks, snacks, water bottles, and a note of encouragement. Let your kids draw pictures or write something kind. This not only fills their time — it fills their hearts.
5. “I See God In You” Letters
Sit down and write each child a short letter telling them where you see God's light in them — their kindness, joy, compassion, strength. Read it aloud to them or tuck it into their backpack for the first day of school.
You’re Doing Kingdom Work
Mama, in all your weariness and wonder, remember this: your role is holy. You are your child’s safe place, spiritual guide, and biggest cheerleader. The world will offer them a thousand opinions, but your words — and your example — carry the most weight.
So, even if your house is loud and your schedule is full, don’t underestimate the power of one-on-one time and intentional love. It matters. It’s noticed. And God is using you in ways you don’t even see yet.
Here’s to soaking up these final summer days — and soaking in God’s grace as you do.
