The idea of writing blog posts every week was one of the daunting roadblocks when first considering to undertake this adventure. While reading from some of my favorite blog sites, I soon discovered that many of their posts were written by other people that pertained to topics that might appeal to the bloggers readers. So, in that vein, I’d like to introduce you to one of my teammates who I admire because she is the most organized person I know. When I grow up, I’d like to be more like her! So, here is Mary Gorski helping you organize your summer so you do not end the summer rushing to do last minute things and miss out on opportunities for family time in the process.
What I SHOULD Do This Summer
Remember those essays? The first composition assignment every fall: “What I Did Last Summer” . We all dreaded them.
No, not because they were actual horror stories, but because somehow the other kids always had a more interesting, educational or fun summer than we did. I became convinced that all those interesting, educational and fun summers were highly embellished by creative students.
More likely, their parents had a lot to do with creating memories. Now, this is NOT yet another blog aimed at making Moms and Dads feel guilty for not being perfect parents. I firmly believe that there is no time in history that presents more challenges to parenting than the one we now live in. What it is intended to do is to provide some ideas and resources for parents to make a memorable summer and create a smooth re-entry to the next school year.
So what is the secret? As usual, it is about planning and preparation. The word “summer” is loaded with expectations of long lazy fun-filled days. At the same time, parents know that there is much to accomplish to get kids ready to head back to school when the fun is over! The key to meeting both expectations is planning for both. Ever hear the phrase “Dinner Before Dessert”?
It means we are going to start with the work and then enjoy the fun that the work made possible.
Plan for fun: research and make a list of all of the summer activities that you and your children enjoy. This is important since the must-do tasks are going to be scheduled around the fun ones. The list can include general activities (fishing, going to the zoo) or specific events like the local county fair or fourth of July celebration.
Events that are one-time-only are especially important to get on your schedule so that other tasks or activities can be scheduled around them. Looking for ideas? Check out this site:
You can just sit down with a calendar and a pad of paper or upgrade to an app. One we like is Cozi. It is free, has minimal ads, allows you to create multiple lists (one for each family member?) and allows multiple users to update the information in real time.
Now it is time to hit the task list. Start with things that will be required before your child enters school in the fall: immunizations, required physicals, dental exams and yes, eye exams. If you’re not sure if your child is due, contact your doctor’s office by phone or online through their portal and find out. If the answer is yes, schedule immediately. If your child is due in August, you can still schedule the appointment in May. Appointments go quickly in the summer months and doctors like to vacation too! Take advantage of online scheduling if available. It is always easier to handle doctor’s appointments when you are not overwhelmed by after-school activities.
Go through the wardrobe next. Start a discard pile of any clothes or shoes that are outgrown or worn beyond repair. Start making a list of all the items that need to be replaced on tax free day. Consider starting a trading circle with other families to recycle outgrown but wearable clothing and shoes.
Athletic equipment is next. Use the same techniques as the wardrobe. Consider footwear, protective gear and goggles or other eyewear.
Start estimating what replacing clothes, shoes and athletic equipment will cost so that you can set a budget aside gradually. Consider making the rounds of garage sales, rummage sales and thrift shops to stretch the budget.
Now it is time to finalize your plan for the ultimate summer! Make sure that both the fun activities and the must-do tasks are on the calendar. Get a master shopping list together so that should you be lucky enough to find that cute pair of jeans on sale that your daughter needs to replace the ones that are a size too small, you can check that one off!
Here are some additional ideas to get ready for the school year:
- Keep everyone on their school sleep schedule. Studies show that it takes weeks to re-adjust sleep schedules once they are relaxed.
- While older children and teens will want to spend most of their time with friends, make sure that you make family time a priority. Parent and sibling relationships are the ones they will count on for the rest of their lives.
- Plans are great and I believe in planning ahead, but leave some space for unplanned time to relax, play some games, or take a day trip. Planning is the bread and butter of life, but spontaneity is the spice!
Have a wonderful, easy summer!
#bestsummerever