Some families thrive with strict summer schedules, while others manage best with only general guidelines. Whichever feels best for your family, consider using the following tips to help make this your best summer yet!
1. Embrace Boredom.
Boredom is not a problem to be solved. It is an itch to scratch. Rather than stepping in when you hear the inevitable “I’m bored,” give your kids some time and space to explore the boredom. Watch their curiosity and imagination lead them to blanket forts, homemade kites, and more.
2. Establish a Schedule and Communicate Your Expectations.
Kids thrive with routine and knowing what to expect. Consider creating a schedule, with blocks of unstructured play time, that help kids to know generally what to expect, but also gives lots of latitude for creativity and personal interest. For instance, outdoor play might look like running through a sprinkler, or playing in a tree fort.
3. Create a Bucket List of Local Favorites.
Write down some favorite activities and local places you enjoy or want to experience. Set aside one or two days each week to do a bucket list activity. It could be going to your favorite local park with friends, watching an outdoor movie in the backyard, or stopping by a favorite ice cream shop. When kids see their ideas are part of the plan – they’ll embrace the plan!
4. Make a Plan for Screen Time.
Don’t wait to address screen time until it’s out of control. Before summer starts, make a realistic plan, discuss it with your kids, and stick with it. There will likely be days when boredom strikes, but be patient, stick to your plan, and your kids will learn the screen time plan is non-negotiable.
5. Take advantage of everything Marine Corps Community Services has to offer you and your family this summer.
If you live on or near a Marine Corps installation, check out all the resources to make this your best summer. Stop by your base library to check out the Department of Defense Morale, Welfare and Recreation Summer Reading Program, weekly storytime, craft programs, and makerspace. Set some fitness goals and achieve them together at the base gym; spend the hottest days at the base pool or check out some canoeing and camping gear from outdoor recreation. Spend an afternoon at the base playground, join a Youth Sports team, attend an inclusive summer camp or event with the Exceptional Family Member Program, or roll a strike at the bowling alley.
For families who live away from an installation, consider getting a free membership to a local Boys and Girls Club. Contact Child and Youth Programs for membership information.
Make sure you are connected to your Unit, Personal and Family Readiness Program so you can learn about unit events that happen over the summer! Your local Information, Ticket and Tours office is a good starting point to learn about local offerings too.