Summer Planning for Families

As a parent, managing the schedules of your children in the summer can be a daunting task. With no school to attend, children have a lot of idle time that can be filled with both productive and unproductive activities. Structure and then no structure. Where is the balance and how can we keep kids, parents and families happy all summer long.

Here are 3 simple tips to get you started.

  1. Set a daily routine/schedule: Develop a daily routine that outlines the activities your children will engage in throughout the day.
    1. TIP: If old enough, chores are an easy way to add consistency to your child’s day. A perfect way to add structure to the family schedule. Simple tasks to more challenging life skills are game!
    2. Tip: Summer school is no fun! We get it! But! We all know, kids are happier with structure. Do not be afraid to check out summer classes as some are fun filled and hands-on.
  2. Limit screen time: It is common for children to spend some of their summer days and downtime glued to a screen. Set screen time limits that will encourage your kids to engage in other activities. Kids are happier away from video games AND yet, realistically speaking, it is impossible to eliminate all together. Set goals, rules and stick to them! Rewards help significantly and at times the only way to make it happen.
  3. Summer bucket list: Too often, summer in WI comes and goes. “My goals are not met and hopeful activities never happened” – does that sound familiar?  When setting 1-10 bucket list goals – the chances of them happening is much greater. Don’t let that water park outing or family camping pass you by another year!

Parenting (especially in the summer) can be challenging AND it is okay to make mistakes. Remember to be kind and compassionate to yourself and your children. Even the bad days are good life lessons and part of reality too!