It’s summer and kids just want to have fun!

While sipping her coffee this morning, Jill was thinking of her childhood and remembered the times when she slept ‘till noon, spent hours in front of the TV in her PJ’s and played outside all day with her siblings and friends.  Jill feels that since she and Jack separated, with the kids having to deal with two homes and the ever changing parenting schedule, they just don’t have time to “chill” anymore – as they say.  The summer vacation plans have become soooo complicated since both parents want to enjoy quality vacation time with the children.  Jill understands the need for her to recharge her batteries as well, as the school year was quite hectic with the many changes and challenges brought about by the separation and trying to keep up with the homework and extracurricular activities’ schedule.

If that sounds like your current life circumstances, here are a few tips that you might want to keep in mind when preparing summer plans for you and your kids. 

The golden rule:  KEEP IT SIMPLE and FUN! 

1. Stop pressuring yourself to create the perfect summer for your children. You're not a cruise director; you're a parent.  Ask the children to help you plan the activities. You’ll see, they have the most amazing (and simple) ideas. Remember, there is a lot to be said about quiet dinners on the patio, picnics in the backyard and ice cream cones on a hot night.  Running through the cold water sprinkler can easily replace the public pool.

2. Try to work, clean your house, or do volunteer work while your children are with the other parent.  Save the fun events for the days your children are with you. If your schedule conflicts with your ex’s, try to compromise keeping in mind that the end goal is to give your children a relaxing and fun summer.   Although it may not be easy to deal with an ex that keeps messing up your plans, patience and flexibility always make things easier in the end.

3. Friends are extremely important for children, particularly older ones, and your super-organized schedule may not fit their plans for simple play time in the backyard or at the park. If required, go the extra step and offer to drive your kids’ friends to and from your home.  Serving a glass of iced juice with homemade chocolate cookies on the picnic table can win you the award of the “coolest” neighbourhood parent.

4. Let’s face it, often you can’t spend the whole day playing with your kids. Don’t feel guilty. Just look with your children for alternatives that will keep them happy while you are busy doing other things. Again, involving your children in planning their activities gives them a sense of control over their schedule which is often taken away as a result of sharing two homes.

5. Last but not least, plan for some adult fun for the days the children are away. You also need time to enjoy your summer vacation and to regain your energy.  Take time to explore new places or simply invite family and friends and just relax and laugh in the backyard.  Remember the golden rule:  KEEP IT SIMPLE and FUN!