Longer days and warmer temperatures are telltale signs that summer is just around the corner. It is difficult to be unhappy while relaxing in the sunshine, playing at the pool, and barbequing with friends and family every weekend. That said, with kids out of school and activities on pause until fall, finding ways to keep everyone entertained throughout the summer months is a task that can seem hauntingly exhausting. If you are looking forward to the lazy days of summer but are worried about the plethora of downtime with your young family members, fret not. Read on to learn some helpful tips and tricks to make this summer one for the books.
1. Enjoy Healthy Eating
Summer is a great time to teach your kids how to prepare healthy, nutritious meals and snacks. Produce is at its prime, and farmers’ markets are in full swing, making grocery shopping a fun and wholesome activity for all.
Pick up some fresh fruits and vegetables, and experiment with blending unusual smoothie concoctions at home. Adding some green superfood powder can elevate any health shake, providing numerous vitamins and minerals all kids need. Try picking ripe bananas and strawberries, dipping them in vanilla yogurt, and sticking them in the freezer. These delicious and healthy snacks are a blast to make and will keep your kids cool throughout the dog days of summer.
2. Plan Activities in Advance
Kids love to know what activities are in store for the week ahead. Avoid incessant questioning by planning your monthly calendar upfront. This way, instead of the perpetual curiosity regarding tomorrow’s plans, your kids can check the calendar on their own and confirm the week’s events. Some fun ideas to add to your weekends are a neighborhood block party, a Saturday at the lake, or an adventure to your kids’ favorite ropes course. Knowing what’s on tap for the weekend will keep your kids happy with anticipation and appreciation of any necessary downtime the week prior may bring.
3. Find Fun Ways to Exercise
Certain exercise routines sound like a drag; it’s challenging to gear up for a ten-mile jog before sunrise because it is just too hot later in the day. That said, summer is a perfect time to experiment with new and exciting exercises that the whole family can enjoy. Summer is an ideal time to escape to the mountains for a vigorous and scenic hike. Temperatures tend to drop as altitudes rise, so chances are the weather will be excellent for a family excursion. If you have a lake nearby, consider renting some paddleboards. If you have dogs or small children, they love to ride on the front of the board and soak in the views. Don’t forget to wear your life vests!
4. Plan Time for Yourself
Where their kids are concerned, parents typically forgo their own needs for those of their children. Too much time spent tending to their kids can make any parent feel exhausted and burned out. To avoid summer family fatigue, make sure to plan some time for yourself away from your kids. By doing so, everyone will wind up feeling refreshed and happy to see one another! Take turns with your spouse and treat yourselves to some solo time spent doing things that you love. Read a book in the sun, play a round of golf with a buddy, or indulge in a spa manicure and pedicure. Allowing yourself to unplug will leave you feeling ready for the next family adventure summer has in store.
Summer should be a time of ease and simplicity. This summer, think about what makes you and your family the happiest and arrange your time accordingly around these activities. By doing so, you can make this summer unforgettable.
