I’m slipping off my stylist hat this month to share something else near and dear to my heart… surviving summer. If you’re a Nona mom, I see you, sister. We always enter the season strong—hopeful, excited to be done packing lunches, and downright euphoric that the end-of-year madness is behind us. Hello, summer—we made it!

But fast forward a few weeks, and bedtime gets blurry, snack demands are at an all-time high, and you find yourself counting popsicles as a food group. (There’s fruit in there somewhere, right?) So this one’s for you, my fellow tired-but-trying mamas. Here are a few ideas to keep the kids entertained as July limps along.

First up: culture, dahling. Let’s start with one of the more surprising gems I discovered this summer: the Orlando Museum of Art. If your kids are old enough to enjoy exploring without trying to climb into the art (ask me how I know), it’s a great way to mix a little culture into your week. Plus, it’s indoors. That alone is worth something. Through their “Access for All” program, they offer free admission on select Thursdays, including July 18! From 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., the museum opens its doors with live performances, interactive experiences, and even sketching materials available for use in the early evening. 

Speaking of air conditioning, movie theaters. Remember those? Several theaters offer cheap, kid-friendly movies early on weekdays during the summer. Regal’s Summer Movie Express has $1 showings on Tuesday and Wednesday mornings, including the Waterford Lakes location. Cinemark on I-Drive offers $1.75 tickets on Wednesdays and includes discounts on snacks (because popcorn really does taste better in a tub). And for the brave souls out there, Fashion Square Mall has completely free movies on Wednesday and Thursday mornings. (We covered this in a recent “In the Nona” episode, and you can watch it here: nona.link/itn0525.)

Now, for the days when your children are bouncing off the walls by 10 a.m., it might be time for a splash pad. Barber Park is the closest public option to Lake Nona, and it’s a solid one with shaded areas, a playground, and bathrooms—critical details. Barnett Park and Lake Lorna Doone are also great, free options with timed sessions, so be sure to check the schedule before you head out.

Here’s a little luxury you may not know about: you can book a day pass to some of Orlando’s best hotel pools without staying the night. Visit resortpass.com to browse options. One family favorite is Hilton Orlando, where day passes typically run around $30 for adults and a bit less for kids. You get access to the lazy river, splash pad, and family pool. It’s instant vacation vibes—well, as vacation-y as it gets while incessantly asked to watch cannonballs and judge a handstand.

And for those “I need air conditioning and a place where no one will break anything” days, head to Launch Family Entertainment Center in Waterford Lakes. Between the trampolines, obstacle courses, arcade, and laser tag, your kids will burn energy while you take a breath. They also offer Toddler Time on Saturday mornings, which is less chaotic and perfect for littles. (Pro Tip: Go with a friend and take turns sneaking over to shop at Style Encore, my favorite resale spot a few doors down.) 

For younger kids, Terra Play Center in Lake Nona is a great option. It’s brand new, clean, and built for littles, ages six months to eight years. Also, they have coffee. So, I’ll see ya there.

Summer with kids at home can be a lot. Some days you’re nailing it with sunscreen, snacks, and smiles… and other days you’re hiding in the bathroom for a few moments of peace. (Cue little fingers poking under the door.) You don’t need to curate a Pinterest-worthy summer. You don’t need to make it magical every day. You just need to make it through. They’ll just remember you being present. So, if all else fails, head to the beach and pretend real life doesn’t exist. We’ve got this! But send coffee.