As the school year draws to a close, the chatter around summer plans intensifies. “What are you doing this summer?” seems to be the theme of every conversation, whether at sports events or year-end performances. With 12 weeks of school break ahead (yes, I’ve counted!), but only one week of family vacation due to work commitments and budgets, the pressure is on. Everyone is scrambling to find the best, budget-friendly activities for their kids, ensuring they don’t miss registration deadlines, or worse, find themselves on a waiting list longer than a line at a popular audition.
This marks my fourth consecutive summer as the Head Counselor at Camp Stay-At-Home. That’s right—my kids spend their summer with me instead of attending camp. This choice stems from a desire for freedom and, let’s be honest, a bit of thriftiness. Here are six indispensable strategies that I rely on to make it through the summer:
1. Frozen Treats
Stock up on an absurd amount of popsicles filled with high fructose corn syrup. Your freezer should be dedicated to these delights. Distribute popsicles at all times—whether it’s an early morning sibling spat or simply a case of boredom. Very few conflicts are beyond the restorative powers of a popsicle.
2. Sun Protection Gear
Rash guards are a must. My sunscreen application skills are average at best, and besides, all kids at the pool look like wet cats. Rash guards make it easier to spot my kids among the masses. I’ve toyed with the idea of a tracking chip for added security, but for now, these garments suffice.
3. First Aid Essentials
With exposed knees and bare feet, scrapes and minor injuries become a summer norm. Band-Aids are my go-to for everything from bug bites to splinters. I simply patch them up and hand them a popsicle.
4. Be the Planner
Avoid asking your kids, “What do you want to do today?” You are in charge here. Unless you want to hear requests for endless TV shows and video games, take the reins and set the agenda without making direct eye contact.
5. Embrace Spontaneity
While structure is important, allow for moments of spontaneity when nothing is planned. I’ve noticed that the moment we commit to an activity, my kids magically start playing nicely together. Sometimes I’ll pretend we have a plan just to inspire them to find something to do.
6. Element of Surprise
Kids love surprises—big or small. It doesn’t have to be a grand adventure; even something simple like s’mores for breakfast or a surprise water balloon fight can create excitement. Just calling it a surprise piques their curiosity and keeps them engaged for a few extra minutes.
Running Camp Stay-At-Home requires ingenuity and patience, and every minute of peace is precious.
For those interested in more aspects of family life, be sure to check out this post about at-home insemination kits and learn more about fertility support at this trusted network. If you’re expecting or planning a family, the CDC website is an excellent resource for pregnancy-related information.
Summary
: Summer can be a challenge when kids aren’t in camp, but with popsicles, proper sun gear, a solid plan, and the occasional surprise, you can manage a fun and engaging summer at home.