This is a contributed post and therefore does not represent the views and opinions of this blog or its author.
Summer is fast approaching and with that comes the dread of the extended break children get out of school. While it can be a fabulous opportunity to spend time with your children, it can also be the subject of a lot of stress and pressure as you wonder how you will keep them entertained for such a long time. Whether you are working and navigating the world of childcare or a stay at home parent, I have some suggestions that might help you keep the children occupied during the summer, and to hopefully keep you sane in the process.
Book some family days out
When it comes to summer, this could be the ideal time to spend some family time with your children, so why not consider booking in and budgeting for some special family days out? It could be visiting a theme park locally, or traveling to a new city or town for the days end exploring the museums and parks on offer. It is a great way to keep the fun time spread across the break and give you all something to look forward to. If you are keen to keep the costs down then looking online for discount codes and taking your own picnic could help.
Look into ways the garden and home can be entertainment
Not every day can be spent away from the home, and there will be times during the break where you need to be. So it is always a good idea to do some research to ensure that you can keep your children entertained in the home and garden areas. A quick look online for and reading articles such as 101 activities for kids could give you some ideas. Sometimes the family has needs where they can’t be out and about all of the time, so it is always good to try and keep them stimulated in their home environment.
Go on a summer vacation
There is no better time than to go on holiday with the family during the summer, and whether you choose a staycation or head abroad somewhere, it can give you the ideal time to enjoy a change of surroundings, good weather, and quality time with your loved ones. It can also be hugely educational if you throw in the odd sightseeing trip here and there.
Book your children onto summer camps
Not every parent can be around for the whole of the summer break and sometimes stay at home parents need a welcome break, so summer camps can be really ideal to help break the time up. It could be sports related, history or science, whatever your children are interested in the most. It is definitely something to consider and the odd day socializing with children their own age could be great for them as well.
Organise playdates and meet-ups
Finally, it is always worthwhile keeping in touch with other parents and organizing playdates and meetups. It gives you some much-needed adult conversation as well as enabling your children to stay in touch with their friends from school.
I hope this has given you some inspiration to help keep your children occupied during the summer break away.
