As we approach the final days of distance learning, there’s a sense of relief in our household. While we’re excited to transition into summer break, we’re committed to sticking with our quarantine schedule. The idea of an unstructured summer, where my children are happily self-sufficient for three months, is a fantasy I know won’t materialize.
We’ve established a routine that works well for everyone involved, so why abandon it just because school is wrapping up? After all, if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it. I dedicated a month to crafting a balanced schedule that my kids could grasp, detailing what they needed to do and when. It was a bit over the top at first, but it gave me a sense of control during a chaotic time. However, a few days into e-learning, I realized that my initial plan was unrealistic. We simplified it significantly while keeping the essence of structure intact. Children (and anxious moms like me) flourish with predictability.
As a mother of four, we really have two choices: embrace chaos or establish a routine. There’s no middle ground. I want my kids to glance at the schedule posted on our pantry door and follow it independently. I’m not interested in running a boot camp for kids dictating their every move.
After two months of adjusting, we’ve finally settled into a rhythm that works. Each morning begins with breakfast, brushing teeth, and getting dressed. Then, it’s off to schoolwork. In the summer, we’ll transition from school assignments to practicing essential skills. Following a short work period, we have “recess,” where outdoor activities like biking and basketball take center stage, often accompanied by a popsicle treat.
After our active play, it’s time for chores—yes, my kids have daily responsibilities. Each child is assigned two manageable tasks, posted on the pantry door to ensure clarity. I refuse to be the family maid; chores foster a sense of responsibility and teamwork.
If time permits, we squeeze in a bit more schoolwork before lunch. After we finish eating, it’s back to “recess.” Kids who sit too long can become restless, and we want to avoid that. Once recess wraps up, we dedicate half an hour to reading. With library visits off the table, my kids have taken to swapping books with one another. This reading time has become sacred; for the first time in years, I’m also taking a moment to read myself.
Next, we tackle another chore and finish up schoolwork before afternoon snack. My children have appetites like sharks, so I’ve learned to schedule meals and snacks strategically. Our snacks often resemble full meals. After eating, we close the kitchen and head outside for water play when the heat becomes too intense, or we opt for yoga or dance videos indoors.
By 4:30 or 5:00 PM, my kids are usually showered, in pajamas, and ready to relax. Only after completing their daily tasks do they earn screen time, a privilege they appreciate more than I anticipated. They know exactly when they can indulge in their favorite shows, allowing my husband and me to prepare dinner while they unwind. We gather for a family dinner, followed by movie time before bed.
While I sometimes wish I could be a more spontaneous mom, with four kids—some with special needs—that’s simply not realistic. Establishing a predictable routine gives us all a sense of security and stability. With traditional summer activities canceled, it’s up to us to keep our kids entertained, and our two months of training have prepared us for the summer ahead.
Of course, despite our well-structured routine, my kids will still bicker, complain about snacks, and I’ll struggle to find time for myself. Our schedule isn’t a magic solution that ensures peace and productivity, but it certainly helps. This entire COVID-19 situation has brought its share of stress, but we’re making the best of it. Without our routine, chaos would reign, and none of us would be happy. Our quarantine schedule provides the stability we need to thrive.
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Summary
In this article, Emily discusses the importance of maintaining a structured routine for her family throughout the summer, despite the transition from school to break. She shares how her family has adapted to a daily schedule that includes educational activities, chores, and playtime, emphasizing the benefits of predictability for both children and parents. The routine brings stability and helps manage the challenges of parenting during the ongoing pandemic.