Survey Finds Parents Under Pressure to Create Perfect Summer, Borden Offers Hacks for Simpler Fun

NEW YORK — As summer kicks into high gear, many American parents are feeling the heat — not just from the sun, but from the pressure to craft picture-perfect seasonal memories. A new survey commissioned by Borden Cheese found that 72% of parents believe summers used to be simpler in terms of activities and expectations, and 89% of that group said it’s important for their children to experience simple summers.

The survey, conducted among American parents, highlights a growing tension between the desire for magical summer moments and the logistical burden of making them happen. Between scheduling activities, packing endless meals, and keeping the family happy, the pressure to create memorable summer experiences can quickly drain the fun out of it, according to the findings.

“Summer is the time for enjoying the sunshine, fresh air, endless day time 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.”

To combat the stress, 81% of parents surveyed said they plan to use hacks that simplify summers. The survey suggests three key strategies: allowing more flexibility in children’s routines, prioritizing fun over perfection, and planning simpler meals.

Nearly half of respondents (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 self-imposed expectations, focusing on connection rather than curated calendars or elaborate vacations.

Simplicity in meal planning is also a priority. One-third of respondents said they plan to make simpler meals a regular part of their menu, and 84% rely on quick solutions like mac and cheese, deli meat wraps, or simple cheese and cracker boards at least once a week. Borden Cheese is promoting its Individually Wrapped Singles as a tool for stress-free summer meals, offering recipes like Juicy Lucy Cheeseburger Sliders that are easy to prepare.

The company is also hosting weekly giveaways and sharing family-friendly recipes on its website to help parents reclaim their summer. The message is clear: relax expectations, embrace the mess, and make space for real, carefree fun.

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