For most children and families, the school year has ended and summer break is in full swing. It can seem a bit overwhelming to think of all those long summer days ahead. I have noticed a theme in conversations.
“What is your child doing this summer?”
“What camps or activities or childcare arrangements have you made?”
“Does your family have plans for travel or vacation?”
We can be aware of the natural tendency to compare our plans with others and create undue pressure. What if my child doesn’t attend STEM camp or soccer camp? What if my family can’t afford a trip to the mountains or sightseeing in another city or state? Will it negatively affect my children? Will they fall behind?
Actually, a balance between active and downtime is beneficial for healthy development. We do not have to fill every minute of the day with travel, entertainment, or education. Enjoy those experiences if you can, but allow yourself and your child to slow down and experience the benefits of unhurried time as well.
Here are a few ideas for creating that balance.
Stay Active
There are several great resources in the Hampton Roads area for families. One of my favorite is MyActiveChild.com. Many of the resources and events on that site are FREE or affordable for all families.
Local libraries have computers with internet access that children can use to explore the world when there is not the time or financial means to travel.
Enjoy the neighborhood. Make friends by connecting with other families and children at parks, pools, or outdoor movie nights. Walk in your neighborhood and count how many people are walking their dogs.
Cook meals and do chores together. If that does not sound like much fun, play some music and make cleaning the house a healthy competition by seeing who can complete their chores in record time. Cook a meal from a location you would like to visit someday.
Make Room for Downtime
Take books home when you visit the library. The pages of a book are wonderful for independent exploration and learning. Reading aloud to your child is an excellent way to connect and experience some quality time together.
In the heat of the afternoon, take a mindful break. Dim the light, close the blinds, and cool the living space. Play some soft music and focus on your breath as it goes in and out. Try to synchronize your breath with your child’s breathing.
Allow your child to get bored – and watch what comes from the experience. Children are naturally curious. When we provide a safe environment where we do not have anything in particular planned, they often use their imaginations. They invent games, make up stories, or create “scientific discoveries” through simple means like playing with water.
Most of all, enjoy those active and not-so-active days of summer. It will be fall before we know it.
