Summer is here and you may have a list of things you plan to accomplish with your children this summer.
Arts and crafts. Daily field trips. Learning opportunities. An organized schedule of events from sunrise to sunset – you have it all planned out.
However, while you may be confident you have the power to make this the “best summer yet” for your children, there’s a danger that comes with forcing your to-do list onto your children.
You may not even realize you’re doing it, but it’s crucial to take a step back before you charge into “super mom” mode.
Before you start forcing your kids to adhere to your summer schedule, take a moment and pause.
Ask yourself if you are forcing your idea of fun onto your kids without giving them a say, and truly test your motive as to why you feel the need to have a to-do list.
Are you more worried about sticking to a schedule than letting moments develop naturally?
Are you trying to impress other moms with your schedule of events?
Are you afraid of what will happen without a to-do list?
These are all important questions to ask yourself.
Kids grow up fast. When they become adults, they’ll be forced to enter the world of conference calls and outlook appointments.
Why not let them enjoy their youth and let them relax without a schedule?
Giving kids the freedom with no schedule also allows them to explore their own curiosity and creativity.
If a kid doesn’t have a firm structure to follow every single day, you might realize they have a hobby they enjoy and are now free to participate in.
Who knows, you may discover you have a junior Picasso on your hands, or find your child actually enjoys reading and wants to participate in the summer reading program at their local library.
Remember, kids have structure all year with school. Their school year is full of deadlines, tests, assignments, and schedules.
Try giving them the summer to relax, and let kids be kids.
Everything doesn’t have to be planned out. Some of the most beautiful memories could be the impromptu moments of catching fireflies in a jar one night, or deciding to roast marshmallows and make s’mores in your backyard.
Finally, it’s important for you to relax as well! If you aren’t running around trying to be the “perfect mom” and jam-pack your child’s schedule, you may just find moments of peace yourself.
Kids can sense when their parents are stressed out, and the more relaxed you are, the more relaxed they will be.
Of course there’s nothing wrong with planning fun activities and trips for your children this summer.
Just make sure to stay in the moment, and appreciate the time with your children.
Life’s most precious moments usually aren’t planned.
Do you see the danger of operating off a to-do list all summer long?
What are some tips you have for other moms on how to “unplug” and relax this summer?
Tell us your thoughts in the comments section below.