13 Tips For A Successful Summer Break

Summer break has already begun, and the routine of school days and activities seem to have faded away into a light bit of chaos at home. But just because the kids are wild and free for the next few months, doesn’t mean that the break doesn’t hold its own opportunities for growth.

Here are a few ideas to keep the next few months constructive and engaging, all while maintaining a gently structured routine to avoid the abrupt transition that accompanies the return to school later in the year.

1. Create a Rhythm, not a Schedule

Try and segment your days into “blocks”: active mornings, quiet afternoons, family evenings, etc. A steady rhythm creates expectation and balance for your kids while also leaving just enough room for that spontaneous trip to the waterpark.

2. Be Ready to Bust Boredom

Task the kids with creating a list of their favorite go-to activities but try and keep them less dependent on technology. Things like fort building, reading books, backyard obstacle courses, arts & crafts, or imaginative play. When that inevitable boredom strikes, you will always have some much needed backup.

3. Keep Creativity Within Reach

Put together a creative grab-n-go station stocked with art supplies for when that inspiration strikes. Though, this could also be stuffed with puzzles and games as well to keep that independent wonderment alive and ready at a moment’s notice.

4. Outdoor Adventure Days

Daily walks, park playtime, pool hour, and backyard adventures serve as the centerpiece of the day while keeping the whole family active, imaginative, and (hopefully) ready for some afternoon relaxation.

5. Visible Plans for the Week

Using a simple calendar or whiteboard, keep a visual schedule so everyone knows what activities to expect in the coming days. Anticipation can often prevent un-needed frustration.

6. Become a Midweek Explorer

Plan visits to museums, libraries, parks, trails or community events on weekday mornings when crowds should be lighter. Who knows, the most loved outing could become a weekly tradition.

7. Give the Kids “Real Life” Responsibilities

Summer is the perfect time to learn some of life’s most practical skills: cooking lunch, watering the plants, caring for pets, or helping with household routines. The effort is what’s worth celebrating, not perfection.

8. Pick a Summer Challenge

It could be time for the kids to master something new: practicing photography, starting a garden, or taking the first steps as a chef with a new recipe. Free time means more opportunity to discover what we are good at.

9. Understand the Value of Our Village

Plan playdates, organize activity days with friends, or team up with other families for shared adventures. Building relationships and finding structure feels so rewarding when we are with the ones we love.

10. Building on Responsibilities with Rewards

The creation and completion of simple goals should be celebrated with privileges or special outings. Creating a system of expectation and outcomes encourages positive growth in our young ones and develops a sense of responsibility.

11. Balance Busy with Adventurous

Structure can be beneficial but remember to leave moments of open-ended time for imagination to take hold, as some of the best summer memories can happen in the gaps.

12. Remember to Rest

A successful summer isn’t just about the kids. Ask for help when needed, schedule breaks, and recharge when you can. A rested parent sets the tone for the whole house.

13. Try Some Different Themed Weeks for Instant Structure

·      Nature Week

·      Science Experiment Week

·      Multi-Cultural Week

·      Library Challenge Week

·      Backyard Camp Week

·      Family Olympics Week

You can’t always expect the unexpected, but building a loose structure for summer break may do wonders for the development of the kiddos while keeping your mental health intact and thriving. Keeping them active and engaged will keep their brains and hearts in motion and hopefully prevent the inevitable crash landing back into the school year. Summer is still about fun and adventure, but it can provide many chances for our young ones to grow in more ways than just one.