Summer Survival Guide

Summer is here! Woohoo!

But wait, we have kids.

And if your kids are like mine, they turn into hot (literally and figuratively) messes without the structure of school.

Let's be real, navigating the summer break can sometimes feel like a Herculean task for parents. From keeping the little ones entertained to maintaining some semblance of sanity, it's no small feat. But fear not, because we've got you covered with the ultimate Summer Break Survival Guide. Let's dive in!

Embrace the Outdoors:

With the sun shining bright and the weather warming up, there's no better time to soak up some Vitamin D and enjoy the great outdoors. Plan fun outdoor activities like picnics in the park, nature hikes, or even backyard camping adventures. Not only will it keep the kids active and engaged, but it's also a fantastic way to bond as a family.

Stick to Bedtimes:

Amidst all the summer excitement, don't forget to prioritize sleep. Stick to regular bedtimes to ensure that everyone gets the rest they need to recharge for another day of fun and adventure.

Establish a Routine:

While summer break may signal a break from the usual routine, establishing some structure can help maintain a sense of stability for the whole family. Set aside specific times for meals, activities, and downtime to keep everyone on track.

Get Creative with DIY Projects:

Keep boredom at bay by getting crafty with DIY projects. Set up a designated craft corner at home and let the kids' imaginations run wild. From painting rocks to creating homemade slime or building a backyard fort, the possibilities are endless. Plus, it's a fantastic way to encourage creativity and hands-on learning.

Beat the Heat with Water Fun:

When the temperature rises, there's no better way to cool off than with some water play. Break out the sprinklers, set up a kiddie pool, or plan a day trip to the nearest beach or water park. Water activities are not only refreshing but also provide hours of entertainment for the little ones.

Schedule a Few Intentional Memory Makers:

Make the most of summer break by scheduling a few intentional memory-making activities. Whether it's a family road trip, a visit to a local attraction, or a special backyard campout, create moments that your family will cherish for years to come.

Enlist in the Troops to Clean:

Keep the house in order by enlisting the help of the whole family. Assign age-appropriate chores and make cleaning up a team effort. Not only does it lighten the load for you, but it also teaches valuable life skills to the kids.

Responsibility Checklists:

Empower your kids by creating responsibility checklists for daily tasks. Whether it's making their beds, tidying up their toys, or helping with meal prep, giving them a sense of ownership fosters independence and accountability.

Kitchen "Closed" Hours:

Set designated "closed" hours for the kitchen to establish boundaries around snacking and meal times. Not only does this help maintain a routine, but it also encourages mindful eating habits and reduces the constant barrage of "I'm hungry" requests.

Schedule Alone Time:

Carve out some time for yourself amidst the hustle and bustle of summer break. Whether it's a quiet morning coffee on the patio or a leisurely stroll around the neighborhood, prioritize self-care and recharge your batteries.

This is what works for us! Maybe with a little tweaking, this could be your best summer yet! Here's to a season of fun, sun, and unforgettable memories with your loved ones!