When we begin to hear the words, “Mom, I’m bored” we realize that summer is really here with the relaxation it brings for children. Here are some ideas that might help to curb the blues and keep them relaxed but focused and learning simple science and math while having fun.
*Create routine charts for summer days, include daily chores. Children like a steady routine.
*Make something fun out of the ordinary schedule. Take time to play games, walking or play together.
* Talk to each other, learn from one another. Have a conversation or question jar on the table. Have everyone write down 5-10 questions and place them in the jar. At each mealtime, draw one or two questions for everyone to answer.
Here are a few to get you started:
*what is your favorite food during summer?
*what would you like to do yet this vacation?
*if you could go anywhere, where would it be? Why?
*what do you miss about school?
*what are you looking forward to about school starting again?
*are you bored this summer? Why? What can we do to change that?
*what have you learned this summer? What would you like to learn about?
*what has been your favorite activity or event, so far?
And you can continue from there. Learning to share and communicate is a life skill that everyone can improve upon. Having positive memories do affect our attitudes and our coping abilities. They give us strength to face problems. They also add to our self-esteem and our feelings of family–that our family is special and unique.
When we are aware of the importance of the memories we are shaping, we can find the extra time, energy and enthusiasm to carry out family projects and the small and “insignificant” plans that are so important to our children. We all make mistakes as parents, but research shows that what really effects children is the day in and day out way they are treated and the memories they have from the family experiences and love they feel in the family. So, take time today to talk about and think about the things that are important to you. Get the calendar out and plan for some happy memories of fun times!
