Leadership Lesson – July 2024: Summer Fun Is Not Just for Kids

Words of advice from leaders on the front lines.
This month’s leadership lesson is from Leighann Sauls, RN, CDN, Alliant’s deputy director/program director of Georgia, Kentucky, North Carolina, and Tennessee.

It’s that time of year again! Summer is here, and vacations are in full swing. Let’s get our staff and residents involved and have some fun. Here are some summer fun ideas that all will love:

• Lemonade Breaks—Set up several lemonade stands throughout the facility. Encourage everyone to stop by, have a drink, and stay hydrated.
• Ice Cream Social—Have an afternoon ice cream social. Encourage staff, residents and family members to come and share stories of summers past and/or favorite vacation memories.
• Summer Bingo—Play different versions of bingo. Try fill-the-card bingo, pattern bingo, or swapping chairs mid-bingo. This will make it an enjoyable experience for all.
• Cookout Fridays—Coordinate with dining services to provide BBQ-type foods like hot dogs and hamburgers on Fridays. Everyone will look forward to Fridays!
• Indoor Camping—Set up chairs around an artificial campfire. Have residents share their best ghost stories and make S’mores. Get Recipe
• Stargazing—Invite residents to join you outside for cookies and juice to admire a lovely sunset and gaze at the stars.

These are just a few ideas to shake it up and add fun to the summer. Happy summer! Keep cool and have fun!