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Lapachet’75's avatar

Although I did not homeschool, I saw summer as the opportunity to get my kids outdoors. We did day camp (I volunteered so received a discount) and family camping trips. We also took advantage of the public library’s summer programs. I’m now glad to see that my now adult kids now try to get their children outside at least part of the day!

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Brooke Zoller's avatar

Yes yes yes to being outside, great for all ages! ☀️🌳🌷

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Curious and Capable Kids's avatar

You are totally right about handing out a chore when when kids complain that they are bored. My mom did this, and guess who soon stopped being bored forever 😜

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Brooke Zoller's avatar

You!!! lol I love it, it works quicker than anything! 😉

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Mollie Donghia's avatar

Wonderful list, Brooke! I can't agree more about so many of your intentional points...sounds very similar to our summers! I have a child who thrives on novel experiences (which is not always feasible during the school year), so allowing times for these in our unhurried summer break allows me to sprinkle more of these experiences in, while still having a more laid-back schedule. Thanks for sharing!

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Brooke Zoller's avatar

Thank you, sweet friend! The time slips away so quickly, it’s good to be intentional about the things that are important in this life. You definitely seem like that kind of intentional mom too! I wish you and your family a summer that thrives!

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Mother's Guidance's avatar

As a homeschool mom of 6 for many years, this is a great list! My bonus suggestion is to invest in extra creative supplies to bring out slowly over the course of the summer. (If you unbox all the treasures at once, most kids won't play as deeply or long as they will when gifts are given slowly.) Bubbles, outdoor chalk, blank books and blank puzzles, fabric scraps, yarn, wood pieces and glue, wax and wicks, there are so many options. Creating an environment rich with creative opportunities gives your kids hours of self-expression, and helps them develop as rich, full people with their own ideas and accomplishments! Plus it gives mom some quiet time!

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Brooke Zoller's avatar

I’m so glad you enjoyed the list and adding to the conversation with your great ideas! Mama’s take note of her wisdom as well! 🙌

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DrCJ - Growing Tiny Humans's avatar

Wonderful tips to thrive during the holidays. Many of us feel stressed at the thought of entertaining kids over the holidays, but when you look at it as an opportunity to grow their life skills, expose them to different cultures and give them space to be bored, then we can see that the holidays are actually a cherished moment for growth and connecting :)

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Brooke Zoller's avatar

Wow! Great summary of the post, thank you for reading, DrCJ! I hope you and your children have a summer that thrives!

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