By: Stephanie Pasquarelli, MSW, LCSW
Educators and kids alike likely feel that the last day of school is the most wonderful time of the year! Many parents do not share that same sentiment. Most of us have mixed feelings about the upcoming summer break. Many parents are looking forward to the end of a “get out of bed! You’re going to be late!” or daily homework battles, albeit if only for a few months. While others may dread the “I’m bored!” complaints, sibling fights, or seemingly bottomless stomachs. Did they really just consume breakfast, lunch, and 3 snacks all before they would even have lunch at school?!
Whatever you are feeling about the upcoming summer break it is normal and we are here to help provide you with our summer break survival guide for kids and parents alike!
Below are 5 tips to help you and yours not only get through the summer, but have an enjoyable school break as well.
- Keep consistent sleep and wake times.
- Keep consistent meal and snack times. If you don’t your children will eat you out of house and home!
- Develop a new daily routine for children that includes screen free time, age appropriate chores/responsibilities, and physical activity or playing outside.
- Explore free resources in your community and the Pittsburgh area.
- Many communities have free or inexpensive “park programs” where children can participate in loosely structured outdoor activities at a local park under the supervision of a camp counselor. These programs help to keep kids active and gives them an opportunity to socialize with same age peers.
- Check out your local library for free summer reading programs. Many libraries offer rewards and prizes for minutes or books read.
- Look at your local museums. Many offer summer day camps and some even have scholarships!
- Ask your school district what opportunities they have available. Many school districts offer summer art and stem programs for a nominal fee.
- Give yourself some grace! There will be some good days and some days where you feel that you are riding the struggle bus. It happens to all of us. Take a breath and take one day at a time.
