SUMMER: finding a balance of structure and fun

When you think back to your summers when you were a kid, what do you remember? I remember it being hot and sticky, crickets chirping, it staying light past 9 o’clock, lightning bugs, going to the pool, vacations with my family—and spending at least a week at camp.

Now, fast forward 30 years, and I am anticipating my kid’s summer break. Honestly, I have been thinking about how to structure her schedule so she has enough to do and then, figuring out how to make sure everyone behaves. Is this really how I want to start our summer?

I do believe there needs to be some structure and clear expectations...for the both of us. And, yes, I want to make sure some fun and adventure are part of our summer, too. I think we can have it all!

EXPECTATIONS

My soon to be 7-year-old and I worked together on this plan. We are going to extend her bedtime by 30-minutes and allow her 30 minutes of screen time if she meets the basic expectations of the day.

Currently, it is set up so can earn more screen time if she takes on additional tasks/activities. I may also add choices of incentives such as additional screen time, a later bedtime, or choosing something for the family to do.

FUN & ADVENTURE

“It’s summer! Be free and happy and danceful and uninhibited and now.” -Author unknown

I am committed to bringing some fun and adventure into our summer, and I think I found a tool that will help us achieve this. The SALT Project just released Find Your Slow Summer, a printable booklet with 50 creative ways to slow down and enjoy the season. Included are ideas like inviting a new friend to dinner, making s’mores, and having a watermelon seed spitting competition. You can also find dinner conversation starters and easy ways to connect the fun activities with God’s message for us.

With just 17 school days left this school year, it is time to get serious about making the best out of summer break—about the structure and the fun we are going to have! How are you getting ready for summer? What are your plans? Do you have any tricks to share?

#summer #kids #summerfun #SALTproject #screentime #slowsummer