Is Summertime restful?

Do these approaching longer days mean more rest
or more chaos?  School has ended and we are busier
than ever.  Play dates, sports, outdoor activities,
vacations and projects that were saved to complete
over the summer.  How do we as families make sure
we are focusing on those things most important over
the summer time?

During the school year there is typically a defined
schedule of sorts.  We go to school and work each
day. Homework, activities and sports become the
focus in the afternoons.  Dinner and a set bedtime
follow.  What happens in the summer time?  Is there
a daily routine or are we just as scheduled out?

Despite what appears to be a more open day, a
summertime plan with boundaries is just as critical
as during the school year.  Make sure that your family
has created more family time in your day. Keep night
time routines similar to the school year, so that getting
back into the swing of things come August is not a
nightmare. And, make sure you have boundaries set
for children of all ages for activities.

As parents, we tend to think that summer time will be
that of rest, rejuvenation and completing things that did
not happen during the other seasons; however, that
is not always the case.  Summer time can be more of
a juggling act due to work and vacation. This can
lead to added stress.  Summer time should be that of
slowing down, revisiting those things that do make you
feel energized and making more time for family events
that cannot always happen during the school year.

Whatever you find this summer, make it memorable,
restful and enjoyable for everyone in the family.  This
is a great time to work on goals independently and
together.  Have each member plan something this
summer that they are in charge of coordinating for the
whole family.  Even the youngest of children can plan
a day out.  Assign projects to each person to help and
talk about how everyone contributes to the home.
Remember to empower one another to understand
the importance of each other's roles in your family
and how they work together as one. And, take time
for yourself as parents.  A walk, a dinner out, a movie
or just ten minutes of uninterrupted time together.
Make it happen!

All of us at Kids Klutter wish you a safe, fun and
adventurous summer time together.  If you are interested
in helping your school make money through two simple
fundraising opportunities, please visit us on our website
at www.kidsklutter.com. We can help your community!

Blessings and happy summer!