Hello and welcome, parents, to another episode of our parenting series! Today’s topic is: ‘Thriving Through Summer: A Parent’s Guide.’”
My name is Susan, I’ll be your narrator, sharing the expert guidance and training provided by Efrat Hazaz, a parenting consultant and co-founder of the Makes Kids Happier Center.Â
The summer vacation is fast approaching, with just a month left before our children head into their summer break.
These can be challenging times for us, parents, as we juggle between work and summer camps. But what about those children who aren’t fans of summer camps? What about sleep schedules and screen time? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. We’ve compiled a list of tips for coping with these summer parenting challenges. Remember, if you have additional questions, you’re always welcome to reach out!
Let’s start with the first and most crucial tip – advance planning. The kids might be on vacation, but they still need a routine. A well-organized daily plan will not only structure their vacation but also reduce their scattering and forgetfulness.
Your daily plan should encompass all the day’s activities. That could include summer camp, screen time, meals, playdates, swimming pool, beach time, learning time, sleepovers with friends, and of course, some free time! It’s vital to involve the children in building this schedule – make it fun with a colorful board and stickers.
Remember, it’s okay if the schedule changes sometimes. Life is full of unexpected events, and every alteration requires preparation to avoid resistance. Therefore, update any changes and remind your children about specific activities to make transitions smoother.
Now, onto summer camps. If your child is not interested, it’s essential to examine the matter thoroughly and not force it. The camp should suit your child’s interests and personality. Yes, it might be tempting to sign up a nature-averse child for an outdoorsy camp to develop certain skills, but do we want to risk them not enjoying their summer break?
Camps that combine various activities are great, but many focus on specific areas, like water sports, surfing, basketball, science, and more. Involving your child in the decision-making process can make a significant difference – present the camp’s features to them, listen to their needs, and remember, no forcing!
Summer vacation doesn’t mean all rules go out the window. Children still need boundaries, albeit adjusted ones. For instance, you might extend sleep times, set new screen times, and reinforce the importance of applying sunscreen every time they step outside. When setting these boundaries, involve your children in the process. Remember, boundaries should enhance their freedom of action, not limit it.
Lastly, let’s touch on screen use. As parents, we need to understand that if children stay home most of the day because there’s no summer camp, their screen time is bound to increase – and that’s okay, within limits. For older children staying home alone, it’s vital to discuss the dangers of media and establish clear privacy boundaries.
Worksheets and booklets – these might not be the favorite part of any vacation for children, but they do have their value. The key is not to overload your kids. If there’s a subject they’re struggling with and you want them to practice, maintain a balance. Let them work on areas they find challenging, but also incorporate topics they’re good at. This approach will let them experience success and stay motivated.
Quality time – this one is about one-on-one time, not with all the children together. Remember, your children are on vacation without the pressure of studies, making it a great opportunity to teach them social skills through shared play or quality conversations.
Budgeting – this is particularly useful for older children who stay home alone and might spend a lot on food and shopping. Establish a weekly budget that they’ll receive at the beginning of each week, teaching them to use money wisely. For younger children, also set a weekly budget and involve them in understanding how money is allocated.
Family vacations – make sure to involve the kids in the planning process. Ask them about their preferences – some might love museums, others might prefer parks or adventures. Mixing and matching activities to accommodate everyone’s preferences will make the vacation enjoyable for all.
Visiting family in your homeland – these trips are usually a chance to visit family and friends. But they can also be a chance for your children to learn more about your own childhood. Show them where you grew up – your school, your old hangout spots, the places you used to grab an ice cream. This can fuel their curiosity and give them delightful insights into your younger years.
From my own experience of visiting my homeland, Israel, I’ve learned that these trips can be packed with various activities. It’s essential to include the children, especially teenagers, in planning the visit and discussing the places you want to visit and the people you want to see. Once you’re there, update them about the schedule for the upcoming days and encourage their participation in decision-making. Provide alternatives if they prefer not to join certain activities. Be attentive to their needs, and remember, sometimes they might need more rest while we adults might want to accomplish everything we’ve planned. So, remember to be flexible!
Well, that’s all for this episode! I wish you and your families a pleasant, fun, and exciting summer. Until next time, this is Efrat Hazaz, your Parent consultant from the Makes Kids Happier Center. For more resources, do visit our website, https://mkh.center.
