Summer Fun: Bonding with Your Kids!

Child enjoying summer fun, representing the joy of bonding with kids.

Hello Lighthouse Families! We are approaching that time of year again when the school year is coming to an end and the temperatures are going up. It can be easy to anticipate the summer with some anxiety and dread, trying to come up with ideas to combat the heat, deal with cabin fever, and find family cost-friendly activities. Summertime does provide a great opportunity to have bonding experiences and make lasting memories. This can strengthen family relationships and develop your child’s greater sense of self. We wanted to help you out with some fun family ideas to help combat the summer blues! Here are my Top 15 Summertime Activities to help you make it through the summer instead of feeling like you’re lost in a desert of screen time, empty wallets, and complaints of boredom.

  1. Scavenger hunt
  2. Water balloon fight or other backyard water play activities
  3. Plan a picnic
  4. Visit a local museum
  5. Cooking class at the Halle Heart Children’s Museum (it’s free!)
  6. Visit the farmer’s market
  7. Go to an outdoor community concert
  8. Visit the lake
  9. Take a drive to somewhere new
  10. Take a drive to somewhere new
  11. Arts and Crafts (use Pinterest to find new ideas with instructions)
  12. Have a game night
  13. Establish a special routine like Taco Tuesday or Pizza Friday
  14. Join a summer reading challenge through the public library
  15. Take a guided night hike at one of the local parks

For more ideas, visit these websites:

https://www.womansday.com/life/work-money/tips/g1212/summer-activities/

https://www.care.com/c/stories/3331/101-fun-things-to-do-with-kids-this-summer/

https://www.parents.com/fun/activities/outdoor/cheap-summer-fun/

#PTSD #anxiety #depression #lighthouse #Counseling #TMS #psychiatry #doctor

Karen McIntosh, LCSW

Therapist See age 18+

CLINIC: Virtual

Compassionate. Experienced. Client-focused. Karen McIntosh brings over a decade of experience in the mental health field, helping individuals and families navigate life’s challenges with empathy and expertise. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), Karen specializes in working with clients experiencing anxiety and depression by utilizing a diverse range of therapeutic approaches, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), psychoanalysis and humanistic therapy.

Karen’s experience spans across various settings, from private practice to hospital environments, where she has provided tailored treatment plans, conducted comprehensive assessments, and supported clients dealing with anxiety, mood disorders, and life transitions. Her approach is rooted in understanding each client’s unique needs, empowering them to achieve their goals through evidence-based strategies and compassionate guidance.

Karen combines academic excellence with real-world experience to offer a safe, supportive, and results-driven therapeutic experience.  Whether you’re seeking support for personal growth, emotional challenges, or relationship dynamics, Karen is committed to walking alongside you on your journey to mental well-being.

While she calls both Georgia and Arizona her home, she enjoys exploring the world to take part in culture, language, community and most of all, food.  She spends her free time hiking, walking, reading, watching documentaries and even the occasional guilty pleasure reality show.

Take the first step towards a healthier you—connect with Karen today.

Tristan Echevarria, BS

Therapist-in-training

CLINIC: Gilbert

Fluent in English

Tristan is currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Grand Canyon University. He earned his Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Arizona State University and has an extensive background in mental health. Tristan has worked closely with innovative alternative treatments, including Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) and Transcranial Photobiomodulation (Red Light Therapy), to support individuals in their mental health journey. Tristan is passionate about helping clients navigate life’s challenges by providing a safe and supportive environment. He integrates evidence-based practices with individualized treatment plans, striving to empower clients to overcome obstacles and achieve personal growth.


In his spare time, Tristan enjoys watching sports such as football and baseball, exercising at the gym, playing video games, and spending time with family.