Summer is just around the corner, and with it comes a whole new world of opportunities—family vacations, summer camps, visits to relatives, and long, adventure-filled days. While this can be exciting, it can also feel overwhelming for kids (and parents!), especially if your child struggles with low confidence, anxiety, or transitions.

Is your child excited for summer but also showing signs of worry about all the changes ahead? Do you ever wonder how to help your child feel more confident, brave, and ready to take on new summer adventures?

At Raising Brave Kids, we believe that preparation can make all the difference. When kids know what to expect and have tools to support their emotional needs, they’re better able to lean into the joy and connection summer has to offer. That's why we've created a playful yet practical idea you can use with your child: the Summer Confidence Kit!

Think of this kit as your child's emotional suitcase, thoughtfully packed with everything they need to feel safe, prepared, and capable—whether they’re heading off to summer camp, going on a big family road trip, or just navigating the slower rhythms of summer days at home.

Are you looking for an easy, meaningful way to help your child feel ready and boost their confidence for vacations, camps, and downtime this summer?

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Build A Summer Confidence Kit Together:

Sit down with your child and brainstorm answers to each of the categories below. Write their responses on a small, colorful notecard they can tuck into their backpack, suitcase, or pocket. This way, they’ll have an easy-to-carry reminder of their strengths, supports, and intentions—ready to guide them whenever summer adventures start to feel big.

My Food & Water: Basic Self-Care Essentials

Sometimes its the basics that make the biggest difference. Just like we need food and water to thrive physically, we also need emotional nourishment. Help your child identify simple items and habits they can do each day to nurture themselves:

Help pack a favorite snack in my sack lunch
Wear comfy clothes
Sip on a cool refreshing beverage

My Flashlight: Illuminating Self-Confidence

A flashlight helps us find our way in the dark. Similarly, your child can create reminders of what they genuinely like about themselves to guide them through uncertain moments:

"I'm kind and funny!"
"I'm awesome at making jewelry!"
“I know I can handle hard things”

Encouraging your child to recognize their strengths and be their own cheerleader can be a powerful way to build self-esteem and bravery when faced with new experiences.

My Batteries: Rest & Recharge

We all need to recharge to keep our inner lights shining brightly. Encourage your child to think about restful activities that help them unwind:

Reading before bed
Listening to music or an audio book

My Phone: Connecting With Loved Ones

Connection is key to emotional well-being. Ask your child how they'd like to stay connected with people they love this summer:

Crafting with Mom & Dad
Talking to grandparents on Face-time
Playing with siblings in the back yard
Inviting friends over for dinner & movie

Wouldn’t it feel reassuring to know your child has a plan for boosting their confidence and emotional strength—no matter where summer takes them?

My Self Check-In Tool: Daily Reflections

Checking in with ourselves helps us understand our feelings and thoughts better. When we know what were feeling we can know when we need more support and when to use our coping skills. Suggest journaling as a wonderful practice:

Write down daily feelings, experiences, and reflections

This practice can also help kids notice small wins and celebrate moments of bravery along the way.

My Cozy Blanket: Joy and Relaxation

Joyful relaxation helps reduce anxiety and fosters happiness. Encourage your child to include activities that bring comfort:

Arts and crafts
Drawing, painting, or creative projects

My Map: Vacation or Camp Intentions

A map helps us stay oriented toward what's important. Ask your child about their intention for this vacation or summer experience:

Embracing fun!
Trying new activities or being open to surprises
Saying Hi to someone new

Helping your child set simple, empowering goals before they step into a new experience can boost their confidence and make that camp or vacation feel exciting rather than overwhelming.

Tips for Bringing the Summer Confidence Kit to Life:

After brainstorming these ideas together, help your child write down their answers on a small notecard.
Keep the card simple, colorful, and easy to read.
Tuck it into their backpack, suitcase, or even a pocket so they can carry it with them.
Encourage them to pull it out whenever they need a little extra comfort, encouragement, or direction.

This way, your child will always have a "map" back to themselves when summer feels big or overwhelming.

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