As mothers and fathers, we recognize that different times of the year possess unique characteristics signifying we arrived at yet another season. These perennial reminders enter and fade away swiftly as we embark on the distinctive challenges that Spring, Summer, Winter and Fall holds for parents.

Recently it occurred to me that a seasonal inflection point was upon us. Gazing down at the faded brown footprints leading to my bathtub, I could hear the faint sounds of ice cream truck music echoing down my street as the mobile frozen treat vendor approached my home. I could only pray that my son had drifted off into a deep slumber before it passed by.

Even though I use a calendar, and had thumbed through all of the Instagram posts stating that the month of June was commencing, it finally dawned on me that, although unofficially, summer was arriving in my home.

Here are the six signs that let me know summer is here:

The perpetual dirt rings around the bathtub.

The resurgence of the earth-toned ring around my bathtub is a prime indicator that summer has arrived. Regardless if my son is playing in the sand or not, it somehow always appears.

The “no vacancy” summer camps.

Being able to plan is an invaluable skill as a parent. And some parents excel in this regard more than others. Thanks to more organized parents, many of the top summer camps fill up moments after registration opens, leaving some confused when it comes to activity enrollment for the summer. Has this happened to me? Maybe.

Sunscreen stains.

Protecting my child from the sun is important thus making sunscreen omnipresent in our household. Like spring flowers, tiny five-digit prints begin to bloom on windows, walls and doors as the temperature outside heats up.

Parenting, after hours.

The peaking of daylight savings time makes for longer evenings and creates opportunities to extend hours of play. As a result, bed times are often pushed and my wife and I are working overtime.

The ice cream truck.

Ice cream trucks are a convenient way to get your hands on something cool and delicious during the warm months. However, without fail this four-wheeled parlour passes by my home nightly at the exact time I am putting my son to bed. Regardless if his bedtime is staggered, the siren song of the classic high-pitched jingle calls to him.

Diminished first aid supplies.

Scraped knees and elbows are synonymous with summer time. Bicycling, skateboarding and many other outdoor activities pose the threat of removing layers of skin from your child’s body. Our well-stocked first aid kit has a tendency to deplete at a steady pace during the summer as our son collects new scars to add to those from last year.

Summer is a beautiful time of year that holds countless opportunities to bond with your children. Sure, their scrapes might sting in the dirt-lined bath but the ice cream will make them feel better. There will be plenty of time to wash the sunscreen off of the walls while you listen to late night television after they go to bed. And don’t worry about those full summer camps; you will get another opportunity next year. In the meantime, enjoy every moment with your family.

Welcome to another summer, parents!