Ways to Keep Kids Active During Summer.
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Today, following the arrival of summer, which brings with it the summer break (from school), we would like to talk about one of the most critical questions for every parent during the summer months - how to keep your child busy and peaceful at home during the summer break.
As a parent, I fully understand the challenges and frustrations that come with this time of year.
Undoubtedly, the challenge of keeping children occupied during the summer break is a common source of frustration for parents. We understand this struggle and want you to know that we're all in this together.
'Why is this more relevant than ever?' You must be asking:
Well, In our modern era, Children tend to get bored quite quickly, and finding them a non-stop occupation requires a lot of effort.
There is no doubt that at some point, most of us will get frustrated or give up, and from there, things can spiral into chaos and stress - fast.
They will start fighting with their brothers and sisters, destroy things around the house (because they are bored), and become whiny and petty, which will excessively affect your tolerance and patience.
Even if your child is properly occupied and you're managing to keep them safe, there are still the additional responsibilities of feeding, cleaning, and entertaining them. And guess what? That someone is - You.
By the way, although we don't want to be a harbinger of doom, there is something else - The issue of keeping them out of trouble.
You are probably well aware that in the absence of a clear framework (School), there is some concern that they will "get lost," so to speak, and get themselves into trouble.
Rest assured that this will also drain your strength (what's left of it, anyway). We understand the emotional toll it can take on you, and we're here to help.
To sum it up, there are many reasons for the summer break to be so challenging for parents (In a way that might even harm your family bonding), but for now, the ones mentioned above will do.
But fear not. In this article, we will immediately discuss the best tools available to help you stay sane during summer break. These strategies have been tried and tested by parents just like you, and we're confident they'll bring a sense of relief and make a significant, positive difference in your summer break experience.
'Ways To Keep Kids Active During Summer - Screen-Free Ways To Keep Children Busy This Summer.'
Shall we?
Table of Contents
1. Be Prepared (And Aware) In Advance.
Abraham Lincoln once said:
"Give me six hours to chop down a tree, and I will spend the first four sharpening the axe."
Like anything else in life, preparation is crucial.
If this is your first time dealing with this issue (and it goes without saying if you are already experienced), do yourself a huge favor and prepare yourself.
This preparation, crucial for your peace of mind, is usually divided into two aspects: mental and technical/practical.
Be prepared!
Mental preparation:
You better humbly accept in advance that you are heading for some quite challenging months.
During the summer, your patience will be tested. Your ability to concentrate will be tested. Your ability to perform tasks (efficiently) will be tested, and more. Understanding these mental demands in advance will help you prepare for the journey ahead.
As mentioned, you're about to face two challenging months (approximately).
The more you gonna accept it before their arrival with understanding, the better your ability to function at a high level will be.
Several methods/strategies can expand your practical tool set regarding this issue. They will mainly include actions such as meditation, breathing, accepting reality, and more, which can bring a sense of calm and control in the face of challenges.
You can read about them in detail here, here, and here.
Apart from these practical methods (recommended, by the way, in all areas of life), Generally speaking, it can be said that the guiding principle is to come mentally prepared.
Just remind yourself, "This will be a bit challenging, and I must stay calm. And even if I occasionally lose my peace, that's okay. I'm human, and it's normal to face challenges."
On to the next one on our 'Keep Kids Active During Summer' tip list.
Practical preparation:
'Things.'
At the start of summer, it's crucial to stock your home with a variety of engaging activities, or what we like to call 'Things', to keep your child occupied and their routine structured.
As mentioned above, your child's boredom is one of the most problematic factors you must deal with.
Games, drawing boards, books, textbooks, and more are just a tiny part of the 'Things' that can help you fill your child's daily routine with productive means during the homestay. We are sure that after you have become deeply acquainted with your child, you will be able to think of more examples.
On to the next one on our 'Keep Kids Active During Summer' tip list.
Strict Schedules.
The famous baseball player Sparky Anderson once said:
"The only reason I'm coming out here tomorrow is the schedule says I have to."
Meet your new best friend - A strict schedule.
A 'strict schedule' is a powerful tool for keeping kids active during the summer break, ensuring they have a balanced and engaging routine.
There are numerous benefits to a structured schedule, and we're here to guide you through them. You can read more about some of them right here.
For a more cooperative approach, involve your child in preparing the schedule. This will make them feel like they're part of the plan, increasing their willingness to participate.
An Example Of Such A Schedule:
8:30 - Wake up.
9:00 - Breakfast.
10:00 -Games/TV time.
11:00 - Chores (cleaning/care of the garden, etc.).
Noon - Lunch and nap.
14:30 - Going outside (walking in the park\playground\pool\library\meeting with friends etc.).
16:00 - Reading time.
17:00 - Games and TV time.
18:30 - Dinner and getting ready for bed.
20:30 - Bedtime.
A schedule is a great tool
Remember, this is just a suggestion. You have the power to make adjustments that suit your family's unique needs and preferences.
You can read more here about how to ideally create a summer schedule for your kids.
On to the next one on our 'Keep Kids Active During Summer' tip list.
2. Be Dynamic.
An ancient Chinese scholar once said:
"If you want to make God laugh - make plans."
Before we dive into the world of planning activities with kids, let's embrace a guiding principle: 'Stuff' tends to be dynamic and change. Accepting this with understanding and even a little smile would be best.
This is the essence of adaptability and acceptance, two key traits that can make your parenting journey smoother, more enjoyable, and ultimately more successful.
These traits not only help you navigate unexpected changes but also foster a more harmonious family environment.
And by the way, no Chinese scholar ever said such a quote. I think I once heard my grumpy neighbor say that... But hey, it's a good one, right?
We bring up the importance of good adaptability/acceptance because, let's face it, when it comes to planning activities with kids - everything that can go wrong does go wrong. And we're sure you've had your fair share of those moments!
Hello Mr. Murphy...
Lighten things up a bit and learn to adapt.
Imagine you've invested time and effort in planning a meaningful activity with your kids, and eventually, reality takes a slightly different turn. Instead of feeling stressed, see it as an exciting opportunity to make necessary adjustments. It's a chance to explore new possibilities and create unique memories with your little ones.
Remember, this recommendation isn't just about keeping kids active during summer. It's a powerful tool that can work wonders in increasing the sense of overall tranquility in your home.
By adapting to unexpected changes, you're not just reacting; you're taking control of the situation and creating a more harmonious environment for your family.
This is a crucial aspect of parenting that can significantly enhance your family life.
Smart conduct in these contexts is undoubtedly one of the best ways to keep kids active during summer.
We hope this article - 'Ways To Keep Kids Active During Summer - Screen-Free Ways To Keep Children Busy This Summer' - will help you to some extent to stay sane at home with your kids during the summer break.
And if not, that's what granny is for. You can always cry and ask for her help.
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