A shift is occurring in how some parents approach their children's summer breaks. Instead of enrolling them in a series of intensive camps or structured activities, an increasing number of families are opting for unstructured time. This phenomenon, sometimes humorously referred to as "kid rotting," reflects a desire to allow children the freedom to relax and explore on their own terms. For many millennials, this mirrors the summers they experienced during their childhoods, filled with leisurely days at the community pool and spontaneous outdoor adventures.
Modern parenting often revolves around meticulously planning every moment of a child’s life, particularly during school holidays. However, not all parents adhere to this model. Some, like Katherine Goldstein, recall fond memories of carefree summers that weren't dominated by schedules or expensive commitments. Living in Durham, North Carolina, Goldstein acknowledges the pressure many contemporary families face to book camps well in advance. Yet, she questions whether such rigorous planning truly benefits children when compared to the simplicity of unscheduled downtime. While certain urban areas, such as New York City, view prestigious camps as essential markers of success, others see these programs as financial burdens accompanied by logistical challenges.
The debate over structured versus unstructured summer experiences highlights differing philosophies about raising resilient, independent children. On one hand, high-cost camps promise enriching educational opportunities and social connections. On the other hand, proponents of free time argue that it fosters creativity, self-reliance, and emotional maturity. By embracing unplanned weeks, parents may be giving their children invaluable gifts—time to dream, play, and discover without external pressures. Such an approach underscores the importance of balance, reminding us that growth can flourish just as much through quiet reflection as it does through active engagement. Ultimately, allowing kids to simply “be” could prove more beneficial than filling their calendars with endless activities.