Summer is coming . . . what are you going to do with your kids? As June, July, and August quickly approach, it’s important to make a plan.
Note: I’ve mentioned these tips are for working “moms,” but they apply to all working parents. These tips will help the family stay entertained and not lose their minds over the summer.
There are a couple of components to think about when making summer plans:
- What you want to do with your kids during the day
- What you want to do in the evenings
- How you stay sane while managing work demands with kids at home
During the Day
Here are a few tips for finding camps for your kids during the day when you are working.
Start Early
Start making plans as early as possible. The earlier you start, the more options are available. If you are starting closer to summer, you may have to look at a few more camps for openings, but with so many options around the valley, you are sure to find the perfect solution for your family.
» » » RECOMMENDED RESOURCE: Guide to Boise Area Summer Camps « « «
Create a Calendar
Create a summer calendar. It doesn’t need to be fancy. I just list all the weeks of the summer in my notes app on my phone–and then I put in the kids’ plan for each week. I make a note for our family vacation, which kid is going to camp in any given week, or if it’s an open week.
Budget for Camps
Camp prices can vary wildly depending on the type, how many days, and how long it runs. If you are able to plan ahead financially, you can have these costs accounted for before summer comes.
Pro Tip: Many camps are FSA Reimbursement Eligible. Check out your provider’s policy for reimbursement.
Review your Camp Options
- If your kids have special interests, this is the perfect time to allow them to pursue that activity.
- If you are looking for a “one and done” summer option, look into your local Boys and Girls Club where you can sign up your kid for daily care throughout the summer. They offer many activities in the facility as well as field trips.
- If you work from home or your kids are old enough to stay alone, you can also consider trading which kid goes to camp each week. My two kids have very different interests. To allow them to have fun but keep me from going crazy, I schedule each kid to go to camp every other week.
After Work and in the Evenings
Summer days in Boise last forever! You can take advantage of the beautiful evenings after work.
Since the sun is out so long in the evenings, we have a unique amount of time to spend with kids after work. You can use the time to bond and go on adventures with your kids.
Talk to your kids about their summer wish list and what they want to do this summer. Include the kids as you explore and discover Boise activities. They will love to get involved and feel like they have some control over their summer break.
Make a summer bucket list for your family this summer. Here’s a list of Free Things To Do In Boise in the Summer to get you started.
Take Care of Yourself
Take some time off with a vacation or staycation.
If at all possible, try to take some time off. Even if it’s just a day for a long weekend, this type of free time can help everyone recharge.
Pro Tip: If you work the type of job with weekends and holidays off, 4th of July is on a Thursday this year. If you take July 5th off, you get four days off for the price of one!
Don’t forget about self-care.
Summer tends to be a lot more work for the caregivers. The kids are home all day every day, and even if they aren’t, they are out of their typical routine and the whole house may feel chaotic.
Do your best to take time for yourself. Schedule it with your partner to make sure everyone has a break.
Give yourself grace.
Summer is a great time to let the kids explore their interests, relax, and enjoy your time as a family. The more grace you give yourself, the more likely everyone is to enjoy the season!
Whether you like it or not, summer is coming. With some planning and a lot of patience, you’ll be able to find activities for your kids and have an enjoyable summer.
The opinions expressed in this post are those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Boise Mom, its executive team, other contributors to the site, its sponsors or partners, or any organizations the aforementioned might be affiliated with.
