A mere 17 days ago my middle sauntered through the security gates to baggage claim, officially completing his sophomore year of college. Three days later my youngest climbed into bed as a rising junior in high school. Barely a week more passed and my niece walked the stage. And Tuesday, my eldest welcomed his first half-day summer school students into the classroom.
A lot has happened in a short amount of time, each event giving way to sunshine and lazy summer afternoons.
“Summer afternoon — summer afternoon; to me those have always been the two most beautiful words in the English language,” reflected social interplay novelist Henry James.
That is, for about 5 minutes. I get it!
MOM!! I’m bored …. Yes, my kids are older, yet these utterances echo through my memories and I can sympathize with those struggling to put together a plan … and a budget … for when those words inevitably ring through their homes.
Being keenly aware that children are on summer break for nearly 3 months, it’s not reasonable to have pay-to-play activities every day. And, in North Texas, regardless of the torrential downpours of late, it will be hotter than Hades with heat advisories very soon. With that in mind, it’s good to have a list of ideas for free indoor and outdoor fun on hand to fight off cabin-fever.
Fresh air activities:
How about little pantry clean-out to fill up a picnic basket and pop-a-squat at a local park or beach? In McKinney, there are shaded tables at Myers Park, or check out Little Elm Beach? Or maybe turn a family nature walk into a obstacle course? Klyde Warren Park in downtown Dallas is complete with tables, walking paths and playgrounds to burn energy or follow the markers at Arbors Hills Nature Park in Plano for a mini-workout.
Beat the heat fun:
Just because school is out doesn’t mean learning is … a tour of the local library or peaceful story time might be a good way to fill the day. For those not wanting to venture out, make memories while making cookies. Of course, blanket forts are a timeless favorite.
Any day play:
Two activities to consider regardless of the weather are scavenger hunts and drawing. Whether your children are looking for leaves or lamps, giving them a checklist of “go find it” will pass the time. Or, encourage them to turn either the garage floor or front sidewalk into a canvas of art with chalk.
Like winter break, summer is a time parents enjoy and cherish, knowing all too well that the days may feel long, yet the years are very short. Children fly the nest far sooner than we are ready; yet, it’s a much longer window of time to fill from May to August and being armed with ideas will help everyone in the house to enjoy it more.