Whether you are a seasoned parent or a first-time mom, different feelings can arise when considering spending the whole summer with your kids. Here are five tips that can help you thrive during the summer months!
It’s mid-June and I’m thinking about the two and half months that lay ahead without any childcare. Summer used to be my favourite season but with kids, it can feel overwhelming.
Here are five tips that will help you thrive instead of survive during the summer:
1. Take everyday activities outside
Take advantage of the warmer weather and do as many typically indoor activities outside as you can.
Eating breakfast becomes an adventure, when you eat it at a nearby playground. Reading the same book ten times in a row becomes more enjoyable under the trees in your backyard. Bathtime after a long day can be less of a struggle outside in a kid pool.
However, it doesn’t only apply to activities with kids. Whatever you need to get done, check if you can do it outside! Peeling carrots, chopping vegetables or writing that work email will be more enjoyable while sitting in your backyard.
2. Plan ahead
Creating a summer bucket list is a fantastic way to plan and make the most out of the summer months. Make sure you plan activities for both rainy and hot days. A good mix is to have activities you can do at home, in your community and small and a big adventure. Also, check out what your community has to offer in terms of summer programs, camps, or events for kids. Don’t forget to add activities you can do at home like crafts, playdates, game or movie nights, etc.
Pro tip from a psychologist: make sure you add 1:1 activities with each of your kids to strengthen the bonds. A special outing will deepen your connection, reduce meltdowns and lessen sibling rivalry.
3. Follow a routine instead of a schedule
Without daycare or school drop-off and pick-up times and fewer registered activities, summer usually means a break from a rigid schedule. However, maintaining some structure can help keep things running smoothly. Create a routine for meals, bedtime, and activities to provide a sense of predictability for both you and your kids.
However, stay flexible to add spontaneity to your summer days!
4. Use Screen Time as a tool
Parents often feel guilty about using screen time but I recommend using it as a tool to give yourself a break or much-needed time to do household chores or run errands. It can also be helpful when your kids are not napping anymore but would benefit from downtime during the day.
Have it as part of your daily routine, so your kids know when they will have access to screens and you know when you can get a break.
5. Schedule time for yourself
Remember to prioritize self-care amidst the busyness of summer. Take breaks when needed, enlist the help of friends or family members, and carve out time for activities that recharge and rejuvenate you.
The best way to make sure you get time for yourself during the summer is to schedule it in your calendar. I would also recommend having a set time every day when you can recharge your batteries.
Thrive during this summer
Using these easy tips can help you feel excited about summer with kids. Make sure that you plan by using the bucket list you’ve created, schedule time for yourself, and use the community to help you with caring for your kids.
However, don’t expect everything to go perfectly! When things feel overwhelming, take a deep breath, give yourself some grace and put on that movie your kids have been dying to watch and enjoy your favourite beverage!
