By Daisy S. Vergara, LMHC
Summer is a blast, but it can also be a bit overwhelming for parents trying to keep everyone happy and entertained. Here are some easy tips for surviving summer with kids.
1. Keep a Loose Schedule: Structure is good, but don’t put too much of it on. Plan a few things to do each day, but allow for the unexpected. This keeps kids busy without making them feel limited.
2. Get Outside: Enjoy the sunny weather by encouraging outdoor play. Whether it’s a day at the park, a beach outing, or just playing in the backyard, being outside promotes physical activity and reduces screen time.
3. Let Kids Help Plan: Ask your kids what they want to do and involve them in planning. It makes them feel important and ensures everyone has something to look forward to. Creating a family summer bucket list together can be a fun project. Here’s a summer bucket list template to help you with ideas to get started.
4. Sneak in Learning: Keep those brains busy with fun and educational things to do, like reading, going to the museum, or exploring nature. This helps them remember things and makes going back to school easier.
5. Stay Cool and Hydrated: Always remind your kids to stay cool and drink lots of water. For example, you could take them to the pool or set up a sprinkler in the yard. To enjoy summer pastimes safely, it’s important to stay hydrated and cool.
6. Plan for Downtime: Don’t get too busy with the plans. Everybody needs some free time to unwind and recover. This keeps the mood light and happy and keeps you from getting burned out.
7. Encourage Creative Play: Arts, projects, and imaginative play are great for hot days inside. These things keep kids busy for hours and help them be creative.
Overall, using these tips, you can ensure your family has a healthy and fun summer. Don’t forget that the goal is to have fun and make experiences that will last a lifetime. Have a great summer!
