Mom’s Corner

Keeping busy helps with sanity

Do you know when the first day of summer is?  Well, according to my children it is Thursday, May 27. (In reality the first day of summer is June 21st this year.) It really doesn’t matter because on May 27, my kids are out of school.  Actually, the older ones are out a little earlier assuming they do not have to make up any exams.
And in case you are interested, there are 74 days of summer vacation or 10 -and-a-half weeks.  Al-though I love my summers with my kids, it can sometimes be a little exasperating.  Especially, if everyone’s hormones are running high.  With  five females in the house (three teenage girls, a 21-year-old  and myself), sometimes there is way to much estrogen in this family!
I have found keeping a loose schedule with a general idea of what needs to be done and what is going on for fun each day helps keep tempers in check (somewhat). Our favorite thing during the summer is swimming pool.  If you avoid the concession stand and purchase a season pass, it is a fairly inexpensive activity.
There are also state parks and lakes.  The internet provides a ton of information on various parks and activities.  Although there are a multitude of web sites, one I just recently found is thenewparentsguide.com.  Just click on Family Travel Guides and then on the state you wish to search.  I like this site because you can check out various states that way if you are visiting family in another state the web site is still useful.  Or  better yet plan ahead and check it out before you go!
Of course, there are fun things to do at home.  Like crafts, watching movies, having friends over (major part of a teen’s existence).  Also, most kids do need some just “down” time during the summer because they are go, go, go for nine months out of the year.  I have known parents to want to keep their kids busy every minute and that really is not necessary.  I have found it is better to have stuff available for kids to do, but not necessarily schedule stuff for them to do.
For example, I usually have a variety of craft stuff available,  but if the kids would rather jump on the trampoline that’s fine too.  However, if everyone starts fussing then it’s time to get out of the house or find something to do.
I hope everyone has a great summer!  If you have a question or comment for Mom’s Corner, please e-mail it to:  moms-corner@juno.com