Additional Coverage:
- Ellie Kemper: I’m giving my kids a less scheduled summer. It’s made me a better parent. (businessinsider.com)
Ellie Kemper Shares How She’s Navigating Summer with Her Kids
Ellie Kemper, actress and mother of two children aged 6 and 9, is embracing a summer filled with unstructured time and imaginative play. In a recent conversation, Kemper opened up about her approach to parenting during these long summer days and how her creative background helps her connect with her kids.
With school still weeks away, Kemper finds herself asking, “How many months until school starts?” as she balances keeping her children entertained while minimizing screen time. The temptation to rely on digital devices is strong, but she’s determined to encourage more hands-on, imaginative activities.
Recently, the family took a trip to St. Louis, Kemper’s hometown, where her children enjoyed playing with cousins and spending time in the pool-a favorite pastime she shares from her own childhood.
Kemper emphasizes the importance of unstructured time for both parents and kids. “Having the gift of time is critical for any artist or creative,” she explained, noting how difficult it can be to find that space once you’re a parent. Yet, she intentionally limits organized activities to allow her children room to explore and imagine freely.
This summer, Kemper has partnered with Pirate’s Booty on “Captain Bob’s Summer Quest,” a collection of simple, imaginative play ideas that encourage kids to take the lead in their own adventures. She appreciates activities that require just a bit of setup but allow the children to engage independently.
While she values these solo play moments, Kemper also finds joy in joining her kids in imaginative games, which help her reconnect with her inner child. “Play is part of my job,” she said, acknowledging that her acting career has trained her to use her imagination-a skill that makes it easier to enter the worlds her children create.
Parenting, of course, comes with its challenges. Kemper admits she didn’t always have the patience to pause and respond calmly before becoming a mom.
Now, she sees the value in taking a moment to breathe, especially during tantrums or moments of frustration. This approach helps her appreciate the humor in chaotic situations.
She credits her husband’s sense of humor as a vital support in maintaining perspective and finding laughter amid the ups and downs of family life.
For Kemper, success is about meaningful work, strong relationships, and a sense of purpose-values she strives to instill in her children. Rather than focusing on results, she praises their effort and the process, fostering motivation and a deeper sense of fulfillment.
As summer stretches on, Ellie Kemper’s thoughtful approach offers a reminder of the benefits of slowing down and embracing creativity in family life.
Read More About This Story:
- Ellie Kemper: I’m giving my kids a less scheduled summer. It’s made me a better parent. (businessinsider.com)