Podcast: Play in new window
Summer is upon us! Do you know what you are doing with your kids this summer? In this episode I share FIVE different ideas to implement with your family to help you have a great summer experience.
Listen y’all, I have three teenage sons at home and they do not know what is about to hit them!
I do plan on giving them space to have fun of course, but they are also going to work this summer and help with the family responsibilities because I truly believe in teaching them that “family work is a win”.
Here are some tips that I hope help you with your kids this summer too!
First, ask yourself, what is the win? When you get to the end of the summer, what does the win look like? In order to create great experiences for you and your children, you have to set the vision for where you are going. Once you know what the win looks like, ask your family what the win is for them. Make the summer a group project where everyone wins something!
Second, set a limit on technology hours. Decide what works best for you and your family and don’t be afraid to set those boundaries. I also recommend setting up a device check-in spot and not letting devices roam around the house. Who knows, maybe if your kids aren’t in front of a screen, they will even pick up a book to read!
Third, set house rules. This is partly a continuation from above, but this could also look like setting “kitchen” hours of operation, television hours, or other expectations for what will happen during the day. Friend, can I encourage you, it’s ok for your kids to be bored! Boredom is a gift that allows the imagination to come alive! Give your kids the gift of boredom and just see what they will come up with – I bet they surprise you!
Fourth, set aside time for family meetings. This is a great time to connect, share expectations, and see what everyone has planned for the week, etc. I know we would love for our kids to automatically know all that we expect from them, but it’s ok to TELL them what you need. Family meetings create opportunities for open communication and a time for everyone to share how they can support each other.
Lastly, look for opportunities to create family memories! Making memories doesn’t have to be expensive, complicated or even well thought out. Our family loves to go on “surprise rides” where we get in the car and drive wherever the road may take us. Go on the trip to the convenient store together, visit a nearby park, travel downtown to try a new restaurant – wherever is fun for YOU and your family.
Simply ask yourself, “what have I not done in my own city??”.
I would love for you to share your own ideas! Leave a note in the comments! What do you have planned for your kids this summer? What have you found that works for your family? We are truly better together and we need your wisdom. Join in the conversation!
Highlights from Today’s Episode
- Preparing for a great summer
- Creating family experiences
- Embracing the gift of boredom
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- “Boredom is a gift that allows for the imagination to come alive.” Chrystal Hurst
- “You can’t expect what you don’t inspect.” Chrystal Hurst
Other Stuff to Check Out
- How to Find a Mentor
- Summer Activities Sheet
- Surviving Summer with Kids
- Need to encourage your soul? Try listening to the playlist I put together for my mom, Lady Lois’ Worship
- Interested in supporting the content I create and enjoying bonus content? Learn about joining my Inner Circle!
- Be sure to also check out my books She’s Still There, Show Up For Your Life, The 28-Day Prayer Journey, and Kingdom Woman!
Let’s Talk!
- What is my win for the summer?
- What is something fun in my own city that I can try with the family?
- Who can I invite into the journey with me?
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You have been so great to join me on the journey here on the blog, I hope you jump right in and do the same on the podcast!
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