A new survey commissioned by Borden Cheese highlights the pressures American parents face during summer, with 72% of respondents feeling that summers used to be simpler in terms of activities and expectations. The survey, conducted among American parents, found that 89% of those who feel summers were simpler said it's important for their children to experience simple summers. The findings underscore a desire among parents to reclaim family time and reduce the stress of creating picture-perfect summer experiences.
Jenny Mehlman, senior director of marketing, cheese, taste and flavors at Dairy Farmers of America, notes that summer is a time for enjoying sunshine, fresh air, and quality time with family. "Sometimes we get so caught up in the daily hustle, we forget to slow down and enjoy the little moments," she said. "Borden Cheese wants to help parents drop the high expectations, embrace a little bit of the mess and remember how good a simple, relaxed summer can feel."
The survey suggests that parents are looking for more relaxing summer breaks, and 81% plan to use hacks to simplify summers. The top three suggestions from respondents include allowing more flexibility in children's routines, prioritizing fun over perfection, and planning simpler meals.
Nearly half of respondents (45%) are embracing flexibility in routines, such as later bedtimes, slower mornings, and less structured playtime. This approach allows families to explore, be creative, and enjoy spontaneous adventures reminiscent of parents' own childhoods. Another 39% of parents plan to be more lenient with expectations, focusing on fun over perfection to reduce overwhelm and foster connection through simple pleasures like picnics, pool time, and game nights.
Simplifying meals is another key strategy, with one-third of respondents planning to make simpler meals a regular part of their menu. The majority of parents (84%) rely on quick meal and snack solutions like mac and cheese, deli meat wraps, and cheese and cracker boards at least once per week during summer. Borden Cheese Individually Wrapped Singles are offering family-friendly recipes, easy meal hacks, and weekly giveaways to support stress-free summers. For example, Juicy Lucy Cheeseburger Sliders provide a simple yet satisfying meal option.
The survey encourages parents to relax expectations, embrace the mess, and make space for carefree fun. For more easy, cheesy meal ideas and information on weekly giveaways, visit BordenCheese.com/SimpleSummerFun.
