Summertime has arrived and, in the immortal words of the Fresh Prince and DJ Jazzy Jeff, “Time to sit back and unwind.” So why not embrace the fun of summer and consider offering these five free perks to your workforce.

1. Flexible Scheduling
   Work/life balance can be especially tricky in the summer. The short window of summer months can leave your employees physically present but mentally checked out. To help your employees strike a balance, consider offering flexible scheduling. A 2013 CareerBuilder survey found that flexible scheduling is one of the most valued perks for employees and ranks as the third most important for employee retention (coming in after only salary and benefits). Employers that offer flexible scheduling in the summer often offer compressed four-day workweeks or half-day Fridays. Others let their employees set their own work hours within certain guidelines.
2. A Walking Club
   Take advantage of the nice weather and establish a walking club. Walking regularly not only has great physical benefits—controls weight, elevates mood, lowers blood pressure, etc.—but it’s a great way to boost morale and build camaraderie among your employees. Use an app like MapMyRun to establish routes near your workplace and encourage your employees to walk during their lunchtime or before and after work.

 [Related: Workplace Wellness Trends, 2015 Survey Results]

3. Casual Dress Code
   Relaxing your dress code during the summer months is an easy summertime perk that your employees will love. Set guidelines and communicate them to your employees. Clear policies will ensure that everyone is on the same page for what is—and what is not—appropriate apparel for your office.
4. Recess
   The Foundation’s most recent Employee Benefits Survey asked employers about all sorts of interesting perks they might offer, and while recess at work isn’t a popular perk (just 0.3% of employers offer it), it is a fun one! In fact, it turns out there is even a Recess At Work Day and it’s coming up on June 15. Give your employees a break from “adulting” and plan a work recess sometime this summer.

5. Ice Cream Breaks
   OK, so this perk isn’t completely free, but it’s close! Choose a steamy summer day and surprise your employees with a 3:00 ice cream break. Purchase some frozen treats from your local grocery store and let your employees choose their favorites. It’s fun, easy and tasty!

Brenda Hofmann
Senior Communications Associate at the International Foundation