Welp the sun is out and the heat is high that can only mean one thing, summer break. The phrase that all parents dread to hear at the end of the school year. Most parents will scramble to find summer camps only to find that either the good ones are taken or they can’t afford it.
What does a parent do? Well one thing to do is check with your child’s school. They are a good source of information for summer camps if you still intend on placing your child in one. Another suggestion is to check with your local recreation commission office. They have discounts on all things summer from discounted tickets to places to go.
Movie theaters usually does a summer series where they have movies from almost free to discounted prices during the day. Also you’re already on Facebook, Instagram and twitter use these resources to follow the places you want to take your kids they usually announce special online deals throughout the summer.
Get out and head to your local library. They have valuable series and events all year-long and especially in the summer to encourage children to keep reading while school is out. Speaking of books, head to your local Barnes and Nobles for story time. They are usually in the day time as well as they have events already printed a month in advance to get involved in.
Your local churches may also in addition to vacation bible schools, have information on discounted programs being offered in your neighborhood. Be creative and be vigilant. There’s no reason why being on a budget can’t still spell fun for your kids. Get signed up for Groupon and other saving apps. They have many things such as discounted tickets to bounce houses, various shows, etc.
Lastly while at home, get organized. Provide plenty of structure for your little ones. Make each week a different theme. Yes take a trip to the Dollar Store, Five Below and your local craft store to get things like paint, chalk, coloring books etc. Plan each week ahead of time so you will have your materials together. Have indoor and outdoor material ready as well. Be creative. Don’t let the little ones sit and watch television daily.
Make each day enjoyable and remember to add some work out days. You already working on that summer time fine, so get the kids involved. Drink water and have water check ins to increase water intake. Kids lead by example so get active together. Most cable providers have workout material that is free and at your disposal.
Get together with other parents and have play dates. Do water days where a good hose, bathing suits can provide hours of fun as well as relief from the sun. Remember to see life from their perspective and include all sensory fun while you enjoy your summer days.
One of my most helpful tips for parents is to provide Popsicles or make some of your own. Yes this inexpensive treat is one of the best ways to step into summer.
Dos and Don’ts
Do NOT leave kids in hot cars unattended
-This shouldn’t have to be said but the cause of heat related injuries and deaths of children is due to the carelessness of parents who leave young kids left in hot cars. A few minutes can spell disaster. Don’t want to take the little ones into the store, simple don’t go or order online.
Do NOT allow your children to go out in places without adult supervision.
Unfortunately as kids are out trying to enjoy their fun there are many irresponsible and disgusting adults that want to take advantage.
-Do NOT allow your children to drink too many sugary drinks and sodas. This should be a treat and not a staple. Encourage more water intake as heat exhaustion is real even for little people.
Be wise overall in the summer time, increase sun block every time your children are exposed to the sun. Taper off some daytime outside play when the sun is really high.
Do ENJOY your time with your children. Remember it’s all about creating memories.
