Transitions from one season to the next can be difficult for kids, especially when it comes to the end of school and beginning of summer. I know what you’re thinking – “What kid doesn’t love the summertime?” Sure, there’s lots to love about hot summer days, later bedtimes and sleeping in, no homework or tests… but kids thrive on predictability. Without the day-to-day routine of school, some kids find themselves frustrated or feeling a lack of control. Read below to find some simple tips you can implement in your home TODAY to help your family take control of your summer while still livin’ easy.
#1 – STICK TO A SCHEDULE… sort of
At the beginning of the summer, create a loose schedule with your family. Acknowledge that things will change and flexibility is key, but having some routine habits will help everyone feel in control. Some suggestions might be: get dressed and clean your room before you begin your day or contribute to our home before you have screen time.
#2 – ALLOW TIME FOR REST
Though many children end naptime in preschool, summers are a whole different ball game! Hot weather, constant activity, later bedtimes… all result in over-tired children. After a busy morning, schedule in some down time. This doesn’t need to mean sleep (though you’ll be surprised how many kids will conk out when given the chance) but allow each child 30 minutes of quiet time in their bedroom. It allows siblings some private time, encourages creativity and independence, and gives everyone a much needed breather. Schedule this in!
#3 – BUILD IN FUN ROUTINES
I find that being intentional about the things we want to do with all our extra time in the summer means we are much more likely to actually do those things. Whether it’s creating a summer bucket list with your family or just plotting some fun activities on the calendar, planning for the fun makes it less stressful to actually get out there and do it. My family likes to loosely use this outline to help us focus on fun and intention.
Click here to print the summer schedule below.
#4 – BE PROACTIVE ABOUT BOREDOM
Nothing drives a parent crazier than hearing “I’m BORED!” Know that this will happen and be prepared with parent tools like a boredom buster jar. At the beginning of summer, brainstorm with your kids all the things they could do when bored. Write each on a popsicle stick and place into a jar. Now, when they are bored, they can pick a stick… and stop complaining!
