Ah, summer break—the perfect time for families to unwind, have fun, and make wonderful memories together! But with the school routine out the window, keeping things organized at home can feel like a juggling act. Whether you're a stay-at-home parent or balancing work-from-home tasks, a flexible yet effective routine can make all the difference. I've gathered some practical tips and resources to help you keep the summer vibes happy and harmonious.

1. Establish a Flexible Daily Schedule

While summer calls for a break from the rigid school routine, having a loose daily schedule can provide structure without feeling restrictive. Create a general framework for the day that includes:

Morning Routine: Set consistent morning routines. i.e., eat breakfast, make your bed, get dressed, and brush your teeth by 10am.

Activity Blocks: Dedicate times for activities such as outdoor play, reading, or arts and crafts.

Quiet Time: Incorporate a period for quiet activities like reading or napping to give everyone a chance to recharge.

Daily Chores: Putting in on the schedule makes it part of their day. This doesn’t need to be an overwhelming list; perhaps make their bed, clean up after themselves, feed the dog, and start small so they feel accomplished and that they’re doing their part.

Evening Routine: Plan for dinner, family time, and a wind-down routine before bed.

Tip: Use a visual schedule or a whiteboard in a common area where everyone can see the day's plan. This helps set clear expectations and reduces constant questioning about what’s next.

2. Involve the Kids in Planning

Including your children in the planning process can give them a sense of ownership and reduce resistance to the routine. Sit down as a family at the beginning of each week to discuss activities and chores. This can be a fun family meeting where everyone gets to share their ideas.

Chores: Compile a wish list of chores, then let your kids select what chores they'd like to commit to for the first week or two.

Bucket List: Together, create a bucket list for all the fun activities you want to do this summer. Make it fun and get crafting! Grab a blank poster board, colorful paper, and markers, and let your imagination guide you. This list will become a reference point for those dreaded moments when someone utters the phrase, "I'm bored!" Here's a list I've created to get you started!

Resource: Check out printable planners and calendars designed for kids to make this process more engaging. Websites like BusyKid offer tools to help children manage their responsibilities.

3. Create Designated Work and Play Spaces

For work-from-home parents, maintaining a separation between work and home life is crucial. Set up distinct areas for work and play:

Work Zone: Choose a quiet, comfortable spot in your home where you can work without interruptions. Communicate with your children about "do not disturb" times when you need to focus.

Play Zone: Designate a safe, engaging area for your kids to play independently. Fill it with toys, books, and activities to keep them occupied.

4. Utilize Online Resources and Apps

Technology can be a lifesaver for organizing your summer break. Here are some helpful apps and websites:

Cozi Family Organizer: This app helps manage family schedules, set reminders, and keep everyone on the same page.

Khan Academy Kids: An educational app that offers fun learning activities to keep kids engaged and learning.

Pinterest: My favorite resource for ideas for crafts, games, and activities to fill your days with fun and creativity.

5. Plan for Downtime

Amid the hustle and bustle, don't forget to plan for downtime. Make sure you and your children have moments of relaxation:

Outdoor Time: Spend time in nature, whether it’s a walk to the park, a day at the beach, or playing in the backyard.

Relaxation: Incorporate activities like reading, listening to music, or practicing mindfulness exercises.

Resource: Websites like Mindful.org offer great tips and exercises for mindfulness and relaxation.

6. Stay Connected with a Support Network

Don't hesitate to lean on your support network. Whether it’s coordinating playdates, sharing babysitting duties, or simply venting to fellow parents, staying connected can make a big difference.

Tip: Take your play dates to the next level and offer alternate days where you have the kids for one full day, and the other family reciprocates. This helps everyone, freeing up a day for each family to be productive while their child is happy and safe with a family they love and trust.

Staying organized during summer break doesn’t mean sticking to a strict schedule but finding a balance that works for your family. You can enjoy a fun, productive, and stress-free summer with a flexible routine, designated spaces, and the right resources. The goal is to create a harmonious environment where everyone knows what to expect, allowing for both relaxation and productivity.

Happy Summer!

Lisa

Need help getting organized? Book a FREE 15-min consultation with me! We can discuss your needs and devise a plan to set you and your family up for success.