Summer is finally here!
Still getting in the groove with your kids? Here are some tips for creating a summer routine:Establish clear expectations. Do chores need to be completed before playtime or by the end of the day? How and when do children need to check in? Starting with clear expectations helps reduce confusion and power struggles.
Plan ahead. Avoid hearing “I’m bored” all summer by researching free or low cost activities. And involve your kids in the process! Good resources include local libraries, parks and community centers.
Don’t schedule everything! It’s good to have days where there is nothing specific planned. Create “rainy day” and “quiet time” kits that you can use when kids are bored with their usual toys, younger siblings are napping or you need a break from other hectic activities.
Limit screen time. Be sure to find some non-electronic activities to keep kids entertained during the summer. When screen time does happen, monitor it and make it more interactive by watching a movie together and talking about it or by surfing the web together to learn more about a topic of interest.
Have fun and be flexible! Parents often feel more stressed out during the summer trying to juggle activities, work and household chores. Don’t forget to enjoy the (hopefully) nice weather and opportunities for family time.
And remember, a schedule is a guideline, a way to establish a consistent routine, not something to be rigidly adhered to. Chances are the best-laid plans will go wrong at some point, be flexible and enjoy the moment!
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