Keeping little kids entertained throughout the summer may seem like an exhausting prospect. To help...
Although the summer holidays are usually the best time of the year for some, for others it’s a little more stressful. What to do with the kids, where to take them, how to keep them occupied, the list goes on... Here are some summer parenting routines to survive the holidays.
Prioritise sleeping and eating
Try and stick to your child’s sleeping and eating patterns as much as possible. For toddlers and preschoolers, keeping to a consistent eating and sleeping schedule makes it less likely they’ll have a meltdown
Get your kids involved in household chores
Young children love feeling important and helpful (even if it doesn’t look like it at first). Don’t think you’re being a ‘bad’ parent if you give your little one daily duties. Summer holidays aren’t a housework holiday and it’s a great time to start teaching your child how to help. For tips and ideas, check out our post on household chores that will change your child's life.
Get everyone out of the house once a day
You can build an entire day around one activity that anchors the day — the library (if it's open), the park, or the grocery store. Arrange to meet a friend or someone in the park so your child can run around, have a picnic lunch and then head home. The rest of the day's routines fall more easily into place.
Have a loose plan for each day
And keep it on the fridge. This is key to avoid children whining about being bored or fighting with siblings. Try to arrange regular activities that have an element of challenge or purpose - even if this is going to the grocery store and teaching your little one to be your shopping assistant. You don't have to fill each day with special activities - the four cornerstones are sleep, eat, exercise and stimulation!
Alternate 1:1 time with your children
Children thrive through bonding and attention from parents, especially one-on-one time. Alternate with your partner and each take your child once a week on a special 'date'. This might be an early supper picnic in the park or a special walk before bedtime together.
Get the EasyPeasy app for summer activity ideas and tips!
The EasyPeasy Parenting App is ready to download on the iOS Store and Play Store! It's full of tips, creative play ideas, and activities that fit your daily parenting routines. Whether you need new games to play in the afternoon or fun ways to prevent tantrums, our app is designed for you!
