Friday, June 19, 2009

Manage the Summer Chaos

We all love our kids but - if your anything like me (and my friends) about a week into summer vacation you start asking when the dear little cherubs are going back to school!

But it doesn't have to be all chaos and anarchy...with a little planning you can have a relaxing and pleasant break! Start with making a list of what you expect of them. What are your goals and ideas to make those goals happen?


  • Do you want them to keep up with reading and math? Ask your Library about summer programs - most give incentives to kids for checking out books! "Sneak" reading in by asking them to read things to you. Ask them to figure out the better deal when you are at the store.


  • What about Physically? We all have those rainy days where everyone just crashes lazily - that's part of the fun of summer - but what can you do to promote healthy activity?


  • Don't forget to keep them social! Especially if your child has a shy streak - involve them in an activity that they can socialize with other kids from your school district. Encourage them to invite friends over.

  • Tell them what you expect from them...sit everyone down at the table with some snacks and discuss what you expect from them over the summer months...how chores will be assigned and what time they are to be inside. Go over the rules and what the consequences are going to be if they don't follow them. Write the rules out and post them on the refrigerator so no one can say "I didn't know!"

  • Enjoy the Dear Cherubs! They grow up too fast!!

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