If you’re like me and crawled to the finish line of the school year, you want a break. Perfect. Here are a few ideas on how to get it through a great schedule, starting with the Week of Chill.
The Week of Chill. For the entire first week of post-school, my kids get to chill. No deep clean, no laundry, no family projects. Of course, they still have to do daily dos and keep their zones tidy, but nothing major. They sleep, awake and eat as they desire without mom scolding, suggesting, or threatening (well…)
Summer Schedule begins. Every woman has a different rhythm, so go with it, ultimately making a schedule that KEEPS MOM SANE. I like to keep it simple (so that I can later complicate it). Mornings are for chores and one hour of 20 mins each of scripture, summer reads, and “something else” (meaning, try to make it learning-oriented and we will call it good). Then, afternoon is play, evening is family dinner and fun.
Daily Dose. This is to remind them to serve someone today (other than themselves—yes, make that distinction). We share the results at dinner and thereby catch things like, serving someone does not include eating a huge hot fudge sundae and then serving by saving the cherry for another person.
Play. Go outside, create a mess, get curious, be a bit crazy. Summer is a release from the super structure of the year. If there is a time to build forts or do bubbles on the lawn (don’t tell my husband), this is it. Of course, it’s something I have to remind myself of, frequently, when said mess is getting on my nerves. But the rule is, make the mess you’re happy to clean up.
Make money. That’s right, if they are old enough to complain, they need a “day job”—something that says, I’m earning my way. Little ones can do extra house cleaning, dog care, or yard work. Older kids can do neighborhood work, regular jobs, or go in on a small business with a friend. With the help of friends our daughter is braving the hosting of a Princess Camp for girls, and our son is working with his dad (and is really looking forward to it…). Encourage your children to choose one worthy purpose (schooling, service, etc.) and one juicy purpose (trip, electronic device, clothing). Earned money is donated to each.
Develop talents. Remember to include mom and dad in this! Summer is the perfect time to take a class, read books, or spend time learning or advancing a skill. Our kids get one “camp” or experience, from a writing workshop to a dance camp. After that, they pay their way (and hope their talents will be our 401K in the end…)
Have fun. Every day, in big things and little ways. As a mom, remind yourself—IT’S SUMMER (I have to say this like a mantra…) Enjoy spontaneous picnics, roasting marshmallows in the mountains, or laying on the grass while someone reads aloud. Take those family trips, and not necessarily far away. Get to know your state and don’t complicate it—a few necessities (who needs a clean shirt every day…) and you’re off.
Take a break. Moms need this more than anyone so put your foot down (or your feet up) and take a half hour a day for resting. Put older kids in charge of younger ones, and threaten appropriately. When the momma is happy, every one stops walking on eggshells.
Try a few of these for a fun, doable summer schedule that everyone can live with and enjoy.
Best,
Connie
**Connie’s Book Signing Schedule this week—enjoy a Free “Get Fit & Fabulous” podcast for stopping by! It’s 30 minutes of great tips to shape up in simple ways.
Weds: Costco—Sandy, Utah; 11-2pm
Fri: Costco—West Valley City, UT; 11-2pm
**Connie’s KSL segment on “Let Go of the Mom Guilt” if you missed it. Wardrobe by Bella Ella Boutique.
