Ah, summer in Kandiyohi County. The lakes are calling, the sun is shining, and the kids are…well, they're home. All. Day. Long. If your house morphs into a whirlwind of snacks, screen time, and the occasional "I'm bored," you are not alone.
We get it. Summer break can feel like a free-for-all, but a little bit of structure can go a long way in keeping everyone happy and sane. So, let's talk about how to navigate summer with a little more ease.
Build a Flexible Schedule Together
Sit down with your kids and brainstorm. What activities do they want to do? What chores need to get done? How much screen time is reasonable?
- Structured Activities: Think trips to the library, art projects, or a visit to a local park.
- Chores: Keep it simple and age-appropriate. Even small tasks can make a big difference.
- Free Time: Let them explore, play, and be kids.
Let your children have a say in the plan. It’ll make them more likely to follow it and give them a sense of ownership.
Make it Visible
Once you've got your schedule, put it where everyone can see it. The fridge, a hallway, or even a whiteboard can work.
Checklists and Charts: Kids love ticking things off! Use stickers, markers, or whatever makes it fun. It's a visual reminder and a great way to track progress.
Keep Meal and Bedtimes (Somewhat) Consistent
We know summer bedtimes tend to stretch a bit, and that's okay. But keeping meals and sleep somewhat consistent helps everyone stay on track.
Later Than School Year? Sure!
Total Free-for-All? Maybe not.
A predictable routine can help avoid those afternoon meltdowns and keep everyone in a better mood.
Get Your Kids Involved
Want to avoid the summer slump?
Let your kids help with the planning.
- Weekly Themes: "Nature Week," "Cooking Week," or "Game Week." OR follow along with the Summer Day Camp themes.
- Dinner Decisions: Let them pick a meal or two or have a family vote for one meal a week.
- Family Activities: Vote on what to do together.
The more involved they are, the more engaged and cooperative they’ll be.
The YMCA is Your Summer Partner
Need a break or looking for some extra support?
The Kandiyohi County Area Family YMCA is here for you! We offer:
Think of us as your summer sidekick. We’re here to help make summer fun and manageable for everyone.
Summer is a time for fun, exploration, and making memories. With a little bit of planning and some support from your community, you can create a summer that’s enjoyable for the whole family. And remember, we’re all in this together!