Summer Survival Guide: How to Keep Your Kids Busy and Yourself Sane

Hey there! Guess what time it is? Yup, that glorious moment when school's out and the kiddos are itching for some summertime fun. Get ready for the symphony of "I'm bored!" and the constant chorus of "Mommy, mommy, mommy, mommy…" that's about to take over your house more than ever. But trust me; I feel your pain. It can drive us absolutely crazy! So I come bearing the ultimate survival guide to help us navigate the treacherous waters of summer vacation with our wits still intact. Together, we shall conquer the chaos and emerge as victorious parents with a few laughs and a dash of sanity to spare! Let's dive into this crazy adventure of surviving summer vacation with your kiddos.

Outdoor Adventures

Try outdoor activities with your kiddos. Activities like hiking, camping, nature walks, or a family picnic. This will allow your kids to soak up that beautiful sunshine and probably tire themselves out. Then, of course, there are activities such as swimming, going to a waterpark, or even simply having a balloon fight with the family in your own backyard. These are fun activities to enjoy while in the hot summer sun. Lastly, enroll your kiddos in some summer sports activities to get them out of the house. Not only will this give you a quick break, but it will also promote physical fitness and social interaction for your kiddos. If this isn’t something you want to do, you can try outdoor games like a scavenger hunt or tag. The purpose is to not only get your kids to have fun but to also allow them to burn off some of that energy that I wish could be bottled up and sold!

Creative Corner

If the great outdoors isn't your cup of tea. There are plenty of creative options to explore with your little ones. Unleash the inner Picasso within and embark on arts and crafts days that will spark their imagination. Head over to Amazon.com and discover a treasure trove of easy-to-use kits that will keep your kids busy and entertained. From painting sets to DIY projects, the possibilities are endless. I will include some ideas below. When painting loses its charm, dive into some exciting science projects. Prepare your workspace with plastic coverings for easy cleanup, and watch as your kids delight in the wonders of hands-on learning. Jewelry making is another fantastic option that will captivate their interest. Not only will they enjoy creating jewelry for themselves, but they'll also love crafting beautiful pieces for their friends and family. Additionally, explore Outschool.com—a treasure trove for all things creative. They offer a wide range of online classes where your kids can dive into robotics, art, coding, music, gaming, and so much more. These online classes provide a fun and educational experience, allowing your little ones to learn and create new things while giving you some well-deserved downtime. Enjoy a $20 credit when you sign up using this link.

Family Bonding

A little friendly competition never hurt anyone, right? Gather the troops and transform your living room or backyard into a playground of laughter and connection. Organize a family game night filled with board games, card games, or interactive video games that appeal to all ages. From classic favorites like Monopoly and Scrabble to modern delights like Just Dance or Mario Kart, there's something for everyone. Challenge your kids to a DIY game extravaganza for an extra dose of excitement. Build a homemade obstacle course using household items, set up a backyard Olympics with makeshift medals, or even create your own board game together. These moments of shared laughter and friendly rivalry will create memories that will last a lifetime.

Balance & Self Care

During the whirlwind of summer activities, we must prioritize our own well-being and practice self-care. Amidst the chaos and demands of parenting, finding personal time becomes essential for maintaining sanity. Setting boundaries and communicating openly with family members about personal needs can help carve out moments of relaxation and rejuvenation. Managing stress is also paramount, as summer break can sometimes feel overwhelming. Explore different self-care activities that resonate with you, whether it's curling up with a good book, taking a yoga class, going for a walk in nature, or indulging in a favorite hobby. By dedicating time to your own self-care, you can recharge, de-stress, and ensure you have the energy and patience to tackle the joys and challenges of summer vacation with your kids. Remember, caring for yourself is not a luxury but a necessity for maintaining a happy and balanced household.

Let’s Recap

In this ultimate summer survival guide, we've tackled the challenges of keeping our kids busy and ourselves sane during the school break. We've explored a variety of outdoor activities, from hiking and camping to water fun and sports, ensuring our little ones are active and engaged. For those who prefer indoor adventures, we've embraced the world of arts and crafts, unlocking our kids' creativity with painting, pottery, and jewelry making. We've also ventured into the realm of DIY projects and exciting science experiments that ignite their curiosity. Family game nights have brought us together, fostering laughter and connection through friendly competition. Throughout it all, we've emphasized the importance of self-care, encouraging you to carve out personal time, set boundaries, and manage stress. By prioritizing our well-being, we ensure we have the energy and patience to create lasting memories with our kids. So, let's celebrate our triumphs, cherish the summer moments, and remember that a happy and balanced household begins with taking care of ourselves. Cheers to surviving and thriving this summer vacation!

~Sincerely Supermom

“Family is not about blood. It’s about who is willing to hold your hand when you need it the most.”

— Unknown