In this study, we explore middle-class parental involvement in summer activities of four elementary students. Many researchers discuss summer programs initiated by institutions, but fail to explain how parents' availability, experiences, and related criteria affect student summer activities. From our interviews, observations, and artifacts, we determined that parents (a) provide activities, (b) have criteria for choosing activities, (c) decide their role in implementing these activities, and (d) commit their personal involvement dependent upon several factors. These parents' most important criteria were for their children to have fun, develop socially, and have quality family time. In addition, parent perceptions about priorities were very important in determining how they plan and spend the summer with their children.