Plenty of ways to spark creativity and balanced structure
Print Edition
Summer days can stretch on forever — a dream come true if you’re 10 and a challenge if you’re the responsible adult in his life. How does a family balance structure with freedom whiling away these lanky summer days? Here are some suggestions for striking the perfect balance.
Summer living
Yay! No more out-the-door breakfasts and homework checks each night. Take time with your children to establish a workable summer routine. What time will you wake them? Or what time will they wake you, more likely? When is lights out? Will all meals be eaten together, or will children be expected to fend for themselves at times? Consider setting time limits for using electronics, for example, TV after 3pm and all electronics off at 8pm, OK 9pm, it’s summer.
Challenges
For a memorable summer, ask your children to brainstorm a few goals and a load of creative challenges they would love to dig into over the break. Challenges can range from setting up a treasure hunt for kids in the compound to building a better toothbrush — for a giant. Throw all the challenges into a box and let the children choose one. Once a challenge has been met, the next is ready to begin! A few challenges you might consider include:
• Construct world’s biggest blanket fort
• Film a commercial for your compound
• Learn Scratch programming language
• Create an obstacle course for a mouse
• Design new Hogwarts robes for the Harry Potter characters
• Read every single Roald Dahl book
Rewards
Tossing a few rewards into the mix helps kids maintain motivation when their enthusiasm wilts. Generate a smattering of activities or items they would like to earn by accomplishing a goal.
Keep the incentives small yet memorable, like choosing a new book or a Star Wars marathon.
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