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Summer Scheduling
Planning for a Worry-Free and Fun Season
By Lisa Marie Metzler
So, how do you go from the structure of preschool days to summer? Use the first two weeks to match your new summer routine to the natural ebb and flow of your children's energy levels. Watch how your children play. Become familiar with the times of day they are typically hungry or cranky or need rest time. Soon, you will realize what type of schedule your children will respond to when incorporating a new summer routine.
"When you see the adjustment period through the first few weeks and notice the natural cycle of the day, you'll cherish the time you have ahead," says Molly Gold, creator of Go Mom, a daily planner for moms. "By meeting your children's physical needs for rest, nutrition and exercise, they will be more cooperative and well-behaved partners."
Don't forget regular bedtimes and meal times when thinking about summer. Laura Brian, a mom of three from Benzonia, Mich., adheres to a summer bedtime for her children as much as possible. "We have found that lack of sleep during the summertime can make for hard mornings and long days," Brian says. "We try to have early dinners so that we can take advantage of the daylight and play as a family or go for a bike ride. By taking advantage of the daylight, our children can get some one-on-one time with their dad or some great family fun time before they have to go to bed."
What about mommy time? Just as you would schedule an activity for your children, you should plan quiet time for yourself daily. The easiest time for this is usually when the children are napping. Hint: For fewer protests at naptime, schedule activities outside the house, like a trip to the beach or playground during mid-morning. After lunch, when their bellies are full, rest time may actually be welcome.
If your child has outgrown his naptie, mandate a 30- or 45-minute quiet time to be spent in his bedroom. Children can explore picture books or play quietly with their toys while having quiet time. They may even surprise you and fall asleep anyway. Remember, this is your appointed time to relax and recharge. Household chores can be done earlier in the morning or after your quiet time.