Staying Sane Through Summer Vacation

We all look forward to summer, the lazy days of summer. But are they really lazy or do we feel this compulsion to keep ourselves and our children busy at all times? 
​I am a big proponent of downtime for children. I think they need a break from their hectic school schedules. They need to sleep in and recharge their bodies. You know, growing is hard work for the body. It can't be go-go-go all the time. But they also need structure. Kids left to their own devices can have, ummm, unintended consequences, shall we say.

Reading is a great summer activity. Either together as a family — someone reading a story out loud is magical, especially if the reader gets into it with their inflections and, maybe evens different voices — or creating a comfy spot for some individual reading. Schedule downtime every day that is dedicated to reading, with a real book. Create a reading list for each child. Remember this is fun reading, list books that capture the imagination. Teens can probably create their own list with a little guidance and prodding. No screen time until reading is done. And how about a trip to the library so the kiddos can pick out a book to read?

If you can afford it send your kids to summer camp. There are all kinds of camps. There's something for every kid. It gives them something to look forward to.  And, hopefully, inspires them. Being away from home helps kids develop independence and self esteem. For your younger children how about a day camp close to home? That might avoid the homesickness issue for the young ‘uns.

Also think about “field trips” to local attractions. When I think of “attractions” theme parks jump instantly to mind. But there's historical sites, museums (the more off beat, the better,)  zoos, farms, gardens — whatever your area has to offer. Check the Internet, you can find all kinds of things to do if you have an open mind and do some research.

Have some kind of event scheduled every few days to give everyone something to look forward to. Checkout local venues for summer music. Many communities have free music at parks. So grab a blanket and go listen to some homegrown music. If you like sports, a visit to the ballpark is always fun. And if there is a minor-league team in your area, so much the better. Minor league teams are very family oriented and less expensive than major league teams.

​Swimming is always a hit with the kids.  You know any beach will do—along the river, around the lake —  it's all good.  Just spending an afternoon out in nature without an agenda is wonderful.

Family game night is a personal favorite.  I'm talking about board games or jigsaw puzzles or charades. Your teens may protest but just persist with or without them. They’ll come around. 
​Even a scheduled Netflix night with popcorn for everybody is a way for the family to watch a great movie and just chill and enjoy each other’s company. 

And lots and lots of unscheduled time. Yes, kids will be bored.  But boredom is the mother of creativity. Don't cave into the initial whines about being bored and there’s nothing to do. If you give them the space, they will figure out ways to entertain themselves. Let them be (within reason, of course. Let's not be unsafe.)

​I'm sure it's very difficult to manage summer if the kids are home and you have to work a full-time job out of the house (or even in the house — that might be worse!) But I think summer planning is essential to maintain your sanity.  And there's a balance of providing activities for the kids but not so many that you're a crazy mess. A balance of doing stuff without additional stress, that's what summer is about.
Make those lists. Having it written down will help keep everyone on board with a slower paced summer.

​Have a safe & sane rest of the summer.

​Laurie