First I would like to address the stress that parents put on themselves to make sure that the children are entertained all summer. You are not the entertainment committee. Children need to learn how to handle boredom. This is a life skill, most of life is mundane and boring, we hope. You do not want to have the child that needs constant stimulation, think about what that will look like in the future, scary. Drama seeking, excitement seeking, and thrill seeking. You probably know some adults like that and it is exhausting to be around endless drama.
Working parents – your children are in some kind of camps, daycare, etc. that is enough for them. No need to plan events in the evenings. They still have a busy schedule and need down time whether they like it or not.
Those who do not work outside the home – may have camps and other things as well but may not because it’s not necessary. It’s still a good idea to plan your summers. Each day with a schedule will make things predictable for the kids and therefore things will run more smoothly.
- Breakfast
- Kids have free play
- Then reading time
- Lunch
- Outside time or if too hot then something physical inside
- Nap or quiet time, reading
- Snack
- TV
You get the idea. Wednesday is grocery day and Monday and Tuesday and Thursday we go to the pool. Friday we try to have a play date somewhere or with someone, etc.
It may sound like a lot of work and it may be in the beginning but you will be glad you did later.
Older kids that stay home – they are still expected to complete the family obligations before leaving or having friend over, etc. Remember chores builds character!
- Clean kitchen
- Do laundry
- Pick up
These things are to be completed before and not after their own fun.
Older kids can start cooking meals and practicing things like pouring drinks, cutting their own meat, setting the table, loading the dishwasher, etc.
