Unless you’re over a hundred, this summer will be different than any other we have ever experienced. This hits especially hard for those families with children who now find themselves wondering what to do without summer camp or many of the activities they previously enjoyed. With two little ones at home, I wanted to share some of my advice for staying sane with your children at home all summer:
Take it Old School
Think of the things that you used to love to do growing up and try to recreate them for the next generation. There’s beauty in the simplicity of camping in the backyard, slip and slides, water balloon fights, and bonfires. You can even recreate some of the activities that are staples at camps to make your children feel like they’re still getting the camp experience at home.
Keep Their Minds Active
More than anyone, I know how taxing the transition to homeschooling for children has been during this time. My son liked to do “work” inside down in a chair! Although it’s difficult, make sure you’re keeping the learning rolling through the summer. Not only will this help their minds stay active, it will help structure your days in otherwise structureless times.
I suggest a reading challenge (if your kids are old enough) with rewards for achieving certain goals. There are also lots of fun educational interactive online classes through a company called Outschool which is worth a click! No boring Zoom sessions here.
Explore the Great Outdoors
Pools and many public places might be closed or limited this summer, but don’t let that stop you from planning special (and safe) outings for your family in lieu of camp. Take this summer to enjoy the great outdoors – take the family for a hike, plan a picnic in a local park or play a game in the backyard . After a day outing the kids will likely be so tired you might even get some alone time!
Harness the Power of Boredom for Good
Use this summer to give your kids something to do and a purpose by volunteering as it is safe to do so, fundraising money for a worthy organization or brainstorming ways your family can help make change and advocate for those less fortunate or marginalized populations. Giving back is such great way to give yourself and your children a new perspective and dose of gratitude.
Keep Connection Alive
Social Distancing can be difficult for children, especially when it restricts them from seeing their friends and doing their usual summer activities. Keep your kids busy and create some sense of normalcy by setting up virtual playdates where they can do activities or play games with their friends. This goes for you as well: make sure you’re staying connected to others through virtual happy hours or dinner dates.
One day at a time has been my motto throughout quarantine and this summer will be filled with lots of that as well as gratitude and reflection on what the past couple months have taught me. Invite reflection and conversation into your home as well. What has changed for the better? What would you like to go back to as soon as you can? What would you like to leave behind?
Becky says
Great tips! This will be an interesting summer with so much closed. I guess it’s going to be a summer like the 80’s & 90’s lol
Kelly says
As long as there are boybands from the 90’s Ill make it an 80’s 90’s summer gladly 😉