Life has been busy with school and activities. Summer brings a time of a much needed break and down time. For some, it is a welcome gift, for others, it may be difficult. Life is BUSY and it is important that children have downtime. I have a list of suggestions below to help with the WHAT DO WE DO wonderings. I hope you find some new family favorites.
- Nature walks- North Texas has amazing parks, trails, and outside learning opportunities. Getting outside provides exercise and fresh air. Make a goal to get outside for walks several times during the week. Simply walking around your block or neighborhood park will make a difference.
- Local Library- Celina Public Library has a Summer Reading Program. Check their website for more information. READING each day will help prevent the summer slide. Some of my favorite times with my own children were our story time library outings and our night time stories together.
- Community/Church summer camps- Celina is home to several organizations that provide summer learning and fun. Be on the look out for postings on your neighborhood social media pages and signs throughout the town.
- Play dates- I highly encourage scheduling play dates to help build social skills. Keeping them simple with a picnic, a meet up at the community pool or park will be fun for all.
- Create a summer chore/job list. We all need a purpose. Having your child be responsible for a simple job and task will develop life long skill of responsibility while building independence and confidence.
- Set up technology boundaries!! Screen time is a gift and a detriment. Too much of something is NEVER a good thing. We are seeing how too much technology is affecting the growing and changing brain. Limit to small amounts of time and encourage your child to play with TOYS, get outside, read, play board games, puzzles, learn a new sport/skill, read, draw, and be BORED!! Yes boredom actually promotes creativity. :)
- Find service opportunities- Volunteering as a family builds servant leadership. Be on the lookout to find ways your family can connect and make a difference in our community.
