keep the magic going: summer of play prompts 7–12

we’re halfway through our summer of play, and we hope it’s already brought your family some sweet, simple moments of joy. the kind that don’t ask for perfection—just presence.

weeks 1–6 invited us to start small, say yes, shake things up, tell stories, and bring play along for the ride. if you missed those prompts, you can read them here.

this next set of prompts continues that rhythm, with playful nudges that invite creativity, connection, and a little

text reads keep the magic going, surrounded by our summer of play merit badges

a closer look at the second half of #wrensummerofplay

week 7: use what you have

this week is about keeping it simple.
a cardboard box becomes a rocket ship. a laundry basket turns into a sailboat. an old gift bag and a notepad can spark a whole pretend post office. you don’t need more stuff—you just need a little imagination.

week 8: play cozy

when the days get long and hot, cozy play can feel like a hug.
snuggle into a reading fort. pull out puzzles. bring out a quiet play setup like coloring postcards or memory games. it’s okay to slow down. cozy play counts too.

week 9: play with words

this week, let words lead the way.
make up silly rhymes. tell tall tales. write a grocery list for a dinosaur or a bedtime poem for a stuffed animal. storytelling, scribbling, and sound play help build confidence, creativity, and connection.

week 10: mix it up

combine worlds, tools, or ideas.
dinosaurs in the dollhouse? yes. building blocks at the vet clinic? absolutely.
this week’s prompt invites a little creative chaos—and a lot of curiosity. let them mix, match, and make something completely new.

week 11: pause + play

in the swirl of summer, this week is a reminder to slow down.
pause your scroll. pause the to-do list. say yes to a five-minute game or a quiet moment building side by side. sometimes the smallest moments hold the most connection.

week 12: celebrate your way

you made it.
twelve weeks of showing up for your kids—and for yourself—with playfulness, presence, and love.this week, reflect on the memories, color your last badge, and celebrate in whatever way feels good. ice cream party? water balloons? a backyard dance break? it’s up to you. just make it yours.

thanks for playing along with us

we’re so glad you’ve joined us for #wrensummerofplay.
whether you did one prompt or followed along every week, know this: you created space for magic. and that’s enough.

want to start your summer of play now? you can download the prompt list and badges from the freebie library here (accessible only to newsletter subscribers so sign up below to get yours!) and follow along at your own pace. 💛


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