Many parents dread the summer months, regardless of whether the parental figure works or doesn’t. It can be daunting trying to figure out what to do, how to fill up all that time, day after day. For the next two months. If the child is in primary school, and normally spent 6-8 hours away from the parent. You might think that now it’s your turn, and you need to keep your child "busy" or “entertained” for all that time. I'm a Mama myself and have been there. However, I'm here to share my personal summer stories, and maybe it can help you, and give you a new perspective for this summer.
Growing up in Madrid, I personally never attended summer camp as a child. I stayed home with my grandmother and helped her in the daily duties. Learning was always a part of the summer months. I had actual "schoolwork" every morning, a writing and math workbook, and had to read a chapter a day of a book the school recommended, and a book of my choice. I was really into an amazing vampire series; I need to look them up because they were my favorite and would love to read again.
My midday was followed by going to our community pool, it was always packed, and I didn’t care, to me it was the best days of my life. I was the happiest child. After the pool, we ate our homemade lunch, followed of course a "siesta" or quiet time if I wasn’t tired. In August, most people in Spain have 3 weeks of vacation, that's when I was able to spend time with my mom. We would most likely visit a nearest beach spot (approximately 3–4-hour bus ride). The beach was heaven to me as a child, and it was the simplest vacations that now as an adult, I treasure the most. Just having fun in the sun!
My point is don't stress summer break so much, especially after the last two years we have endured with our kids. Be kind to yourself, and remember kids need to get bored, there's many studies done that back this up. Kids need to learn daily house chores; kids need structure, kids need to have fun, and laugh at the simple things have to offer, and they will thrive. If you give a child a busy, and saturated schedule, they will get over-stimulated, and can have a negative impact.
Nowadays we have many resources, ideas, at our fingertips for summer activities, cheap or free activities, and yes, some fun/learning summer camps!
I personally have my son this summer, attending one camp session on a part-time basis. Because unlike my grandmother I must work outside the house. The good thing is he's an early riser, and we have established a routine, and he's loving life!
We have done daily learning activities, he's learned how to clean, bake, make his bed, fold his laundry, and even helped my husband change the car battery. If you would like to see some samples, or have any questions feel free to e-mail me, or follow my Instagram @irina_sobrino_palet
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