Magical summer moments such as road trips, pool days, and warm evenings in the backyard do not happen by accident, and a new survey commissioned by Borden Cheese reveals that the pressure on parents to create these experiences is higher than ever. According to the survey of American parents, 72% of respondents feel summers used to be simpler in terms of activities and expectations, and 89% of that group said it is important for their children to experience simple summers. The findings highlight a growing desire among parents to reclaim a relaxed, stress-free summer break.
“Summer is the time for enjoying the sunshine, fresh air, endless daytime and quality time with family and friends,” said Jenny Mehlman, senior director of marketing, cheese, taste and flavors at Dairy Farmers of America. “Sometimes we get so caught up in the daily hustle, we forget to slow down and enjoy the little moments. 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 indicates that parents are actively seeking ways to simplify their summers, with 81% of respondents planning to use hacks to make the season easier. The top three suggestions from respondents include allowing more flexibility with children’s routines, prioritizing fun over perfection, and planning simpler meals. Nearly half of parents (45%) are embracing flexibility by allowing later bedtimes, slower mornings, or less structured playtime, creating room for spontaneous adventures reminiscent of their own childhoods. Meanwhile, 39% plan to be more lenient with expectations, focusing on connection over elaborate vacations or curated calendars.
Simplifying meals is also a 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, reliable meal and snack solutions such as mac and cheese, deli meat wraps, and simple cheese and cracker boards at least once per week during summer. To support this, Borden Cheese Individually Wrapped Singles are offering family-friendly recipes, easy meal hacks, and weekly giveaways through their Simple Summer Fun program. One example is the Juicy Lucy Cheeseburger Sliders, which combine ground beef, Borden American Melts, and seasonings for a quick, crowd-pleasing meal that feels “extra” without extra work.
The survey underscores a broader trend: parents are ready to relax expectations, embrace the mess, and make space for carefree fun. By adopting these simple hacks, families can focus on what truly matters—creating lasting memories together without the pressure of perfection.
