Nationals has a way of making dance moms feel like everything has to be perfect. But your dancer doesn't need a perfect week—they need a present mom. Here's your Dance Mom Summer Permission Slip #2 and a reminder that the best Nationals memories aren't created by perfect packing or Pinterest-worthy plans.

You've heard of Hot Girl Summer. I'm having a Dance Mom Summer. Here's why summer has become my favorite season of dance life—and why it might be the perfect time for dance moms to focus on themselves too.