The summer goes by so quickly. Personally, I wish I could hold onto the summer forever! However, I know that not all parents feel that way and they’re counting down the days until school starts. Parenting through the dog days of summer can get tough, especially if you have younger kids. You’ll want to download my Summer Survival Skills Webinar to make the most out of the rest of your summer!
Simple Summer Survival Skills
Create a family calendar
It is tempting to just go with the flow in the summertime. I find that it usually backfires. Making a loose schedule is a great idea for most families. Having an idea of what you are doing each day of the week can help keep some structure to your days. For example, Mondays the museums are generally free where we live so we might plan to visit some of our favorites then. Another day we might visit our grandfather at the nursing home. Yes, another day was park day, and another was designated as a lazy day. Even in the summer, kids like to know what to expect. It helped me have just enough structure to make our days smoother.
Make downtime a goal
I know I recommend making a calendar, but I do want to stress again that it’s best if we can slow down our summers. We are often so busy during the year it is great if we could make downtime our number one priority. As much as you can, try to have an old-fashioned summer. If you can’t do that, schedule an old-fashioned day. Sleep in a bit, read books and make pancakes for breakfast. Make sure to turn off the electronics (that includes the parents). Don’t forget to get outside. Play tag, blow bubbles, turn on the sprinkler, finger paint, and catch fireflies.
Eat dinner outside
Obviously, when everyone is at home, the house seems to be in a constant state of upheaval. The ensuing clutter can get to any mom! In our house, I created a tradition of alfresco dinners. I have the kids grab plastic plates and cutlery and set up supper on our patio table, or sometimes they’ll grab a blanket and we picnic on the grass. We try to barbecue as much as possible so that there aren’t any pots waiting to be washed. I save a whole lot of time and energy by moving our meal times outdoors.
Simple chores
Summer is a great time to teach your kids to help around the house. It’s helpful to have a chart that lists some simple jobs that they need to do before they can start to play. Some ideas are making their bed, wiping down the bathroom sink, putting their dirty clothes in the hamper, folding laundry, and pairing socks. Train them to clean up after themselves in the kitchen. Remember, it’s the summer, so everyone is feeling a little bit lazy.
Don’t get angry if they are not cooperating, instead create some catchphrases that can keep the mood light as your kids are working:
“Keeping this house tidy will make everyone feel more comfortable!”
“We are such a great team!”
“A clean home is a happy home!”
Don’t Do This Alone
This bears repeating. You are going to need a break. Don’t forget to enlist the help of the grandparents, if they’re available. They love to help out and kids adore them. You can also hire a babysitter, or you take turns with your friends watching each other’s kids.
Do you have any favorite summer survival skills to share? I’d love to hear them!
Comment below!