The last school bell has sounded for many of our kids. Summer is here! That means endless possibilities and tons of free time. But a big blank canvas like that can also be scary if you aren’t sure how to fill it.

Balance. The word doesn’t have to strike fear in the heart of every parent out there. Balance is possible. And balance in the summer schedule can keep everyone enjoying the months off and extra time together.

Balance Structured vs. Un-Structured

Be sure to plan plenty of structured and un-structured times for the family. Too much of either can be overwhelming. Many families go on a vacation together. Others choose a “staycation” and do day trips in their local area. There are also tons of day camp possibilities to choose from. Check out your local newspaper, parent sites, magazines for opportunities. Get together with other moms to make a schedule of outings and playdates.

But also leave plenty of days for un-structured play. Give the kids time to just do what they want to do. Let them enjoy being outside as much as possible. It’s SO good for kids to be outside. Provide plenty of creative play supplies (bikes, scooters, water toys, sand toys, swings, etc.) for hours of imaginative play that requires no agenda.

Be Prepared for Rainy Days

While much of the fun of Summer is had outside, there will be rain. Being unprepared for a rainy day (or a stretch of them) is incredibly stressful. Keep a rainy day box packed. Fill a big plastic tub or box with costumes, old toys that haven’t been played with recently, plenty of craft supplies, board games, magazines for picture scavenger hunts.

Have a small tent? Go camping in the living room. Have a blanket picnic. Read books together. Watch a favorite movie (because you sure don’t want to waste sunny days on that).

Include Time for Giving

Plan some activities that encourage benevolence. Make cookies with the kids and deliver them to a local nursing home or children’s hospital. Have a yard sale or make a lemonade stand to raise money for a local charity that your family chooses together. Find out about any local park clean-up days and get involved.

If your church or another church in your area has a Vacation Bible School program, see how you can help. In addition to being a great activity for your kids, it can be a way for you to get involved and to give back to the community.

Don’t Be Afraid to Make Learning Part of the Fun

Just because school’s out, it doesn’t have to mean the books never come out to play. Children still need to keep their minds sharp! Many local libraries have reading lists and fun challenges to reward diligent readers.

Plan play dates that put books in the center of the fun. One idea would be to choose a particular children’s book and encourage the kids to come dressed as a character. Read the book to them. Plan snacks and games that are inspired by the book.

Keep the Expectations and Schedules Realistic

Summer break should not be stressful. Don’t overthink it. Set your expectations and schedules realistically.

That’s the best way to ensure balance and FUN!

photo credit