Kate Plus 8

School’s out for the summer, and Kate has some surprise activities planned for the kids including a family beach trip to Florida. Kate also gets back in the dating game, but not without checking in with the kids first. Cara and Mady are high-school bound, so Kate worries the girls might be losing interest in her big summer plans. Despite their growing pains, the family continues to support each other every step of the way.

This season highlights a trip down to Florida where the family adventure includes a first time jaunt to a water park, a panic room activity that calls for teamwork and communication in order to make it out of the room on time, deep sea fishing that proves to be a challenge for some of the kids, and a home cooked meal for the entire family by Cara and Mady. Back home, Kate wants to resurrect one-on-one time with everyone, and sets up a spa day with the girls and a magic show with the boys. She also goes antique shopping with Cara and Mady, and puts together a culinary challenge where the older girls create their own teams with their younger siblings. Home improvement is at the top of Kate’s list this summer, which includes building a new deck that inspires Kate to throw a summer party for her family and friends, but will the deck be done in time for the party?

After summer, back-to-school shopping is a challenge for Kate, Mady and Cara because with no uniforms, finding the perfect first day outfit is harder than they had anticipated. Kate wants to finally start dating again, so with the kids in mind, she makes sure everyone supports this next step. But even with the kids on board, Kate’s unsure of how her blind date will turn out. It’s a summer full of travel, family fun and lots of changes for Kate and her eight. (via Season 9 press release)