As the school year comes to a close, the buzz around summer plans is palpable. Conversations at sporting events and school performances often revolve around one question: “What are you doing this summer?” With twelve long weeks of vacation ahead (not that I’ve been counting!), many parents scramble to find engaging, budget-friendly activities for their children.
For the past few summers, I’ve taken on the role of Head Counselor at my very own Camp Stay-At-Home. Yes, you read that right—I don’t send my kids to camp. Instead, I keep them at home, not only for the sake of freedom but also because, let’s be honest, it’s budget-friendly and a bit easier. Here are my six indispensable tips to help you survive the summer months:
1. Popsicles Are Your Best Friend.
Stock up on frozen treats—high fructose corn syrup and all. When the kids start bickering at 8 a.m., a popsicle can work wonders. A meltdown over a minor issue? Popsicle to the rescue. Boredom setting in? You guessed it, popsicle time. Seriously, these frozen delights can solve a myriad of problems.
2. Invest in Rash Guards.
My sunscreen application skills leave much to be desired, which is why rash guards are a summer essential. Not only do they provide sun protection, but they also help you spot your kids in the crowded pool full of wet, wild children. I’ve even thought about tracking them via an app, but for now, rash guards will suffice.
3. Band-Aids Are a Must.
With kids running around barefoot and with exposed knees, scrapes and bruises are inevitable. Keep a stash of Band-Aids handy for those inevitable injuries, whether it’s a bug bite or a minor burn. After a quick fix, hand them a popsicle for good measure.
4. Have a Game Plan.
Whatever you do, don’t ask your kids what they want to do each day. Trust me, you don’t want to hear “endless video games and TV.” As the Head Counselor, it’s your job to make plans and keep things moving. Be firm in your decisions and avoid making eye contact when they try to negotiate.
5. Embrace the Unplanned Moments.
It’s equally important to allow for unstructured time. Ironically, just when you commit to an outing, the kids will start playing nicely together. Instead of disrupting that rare moment of peace, sometimes it’s best to let things unfold naturally. Occasionally, I’ll pretend we have a plan just to encourage them to find their own activities.
6. Surprises Keep Things Exciting.
Kids love surprises! It doesn’t have to be extravagant—simple things like s’mores for breakfast or a surprise water balloon fight will do. Just calling it a surprise piques their interest and keeps them entertained for a little while longer.
For more tips on parenting and home activities, check out one of our other blog posts here. Remember, during the summer at Camp Stay-At-Home, every minute counts!
In summary, while summer can be challenging when you choose to keep your kids at home, a little planning and creativity can turn it into a memorable experience. From popsicles to surprise activities, these tips will help you navigate the long vacation and keep your kids entertained without breaking the bank. For those considering at-home insemination options, you can find reliable kits at Make a Mom. Additionally, if you’re interested in information about pregnancy, a great resource can be found here.
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