Summer Time

Many have ended the school year, some are just about done and some still have young ones that are not in school, where the only separation or change to summer is the clothing options we now provide our children.

Winter time can be hard. We had to get creative some days to challenge our brains, emotional, educational, sensory, and spiritual growth.

Now, that it is getting warmer and more activities can be held outdoors, it has been helpful to get out and about. When my children’s “buckets” (Have you read this book?) are full of outdoor exploring and creating and catching then there’s no time for arguing with each other. Also, when children can get out and enjoy nature and each other there is so much growth and development that occurs.

Celebrate!

Don’t forget that summer is also about letting go of some of the pressure and structure you had throughout this school year. Celebrating all you have accomplished this past year through all the back and forth of literally everything.

Bucket List

So, as you’re brainstorming some ideas you want to do with your family, I will share with you a few of ours:

Butterfly cycle Have you ever done this at home? It is one of the most amazing things you get to witness. This kit sends you caterpillars and a net to allow you to observe their metamorphosis into the chrysalis, rest, and release as a butterfly. This kit has everything you need to teach your little ones about the life cycle, observing, being still and quiet and the purpose of rest, and how change can be beautiful. Any other thoughts on what you would share with your children while observing please let us know in the comments.

A lot of the other activities on our bucket list cost little to no money:

– drive with the windows down

– have a picnic (This could be anywhere: a park, backyard, mountain, with friends)

– same with camping (could be anywhere…even inside your house)

– roast marshmallows

– get ice cream

– hike

– swim, etc.

Make the Memories

One more thing, don’t forget to slow down and enjoy the activities with your family. This is one I’m finally starting to get better at. I would rather prepare everything (towels, snacks, etc) or just sit and watch everyone else having fun.

The other week we opened up our water-slide. My husband was SUPER excited about this and so was my eldest daughter. But when the water starting flowing and sprinkling in the air my daughter got nervous (I and the girls aren’t the biggest fans of getting our faces wet). I realized I had to step up and be the example. I’m sure it wasn’t pretty but I did it.  And you know what? It was fun!

It was great to be reminded to step into the fun and it also helped my daughter feel braver to try it again and again.

I encourage you this summer to create a list, make memories with your family, grow together, and STEP INTO THE FUN.

Freebies

Meet Julia!

Julia is a wife to her high-school sweetheart, a mother to two beautiful girls and a follower of Christ.   She loves crafting, teaching and is forever grateful for a God who is in control of all unknowns and thankful we can have a peace that surpasses all understanding.