I have almost made it through my first year as a mom of a school aged son. Lots of lessons learned but ultimately I was feeling proud of the past year. That lasted about 5 minutes. I was then reminded that as a full time working mom, I had a huge dilemma in front of me.
What on earth was my son going to do this summer?!
My daughter is two so my to do list involves signing the sunscreen form at daycare and being on my merry way. I had no idea where to begin when it came to providing care and entertainment for my five year old. Working mamas, I don’t know about you but my mom guilt kicks in easily over topics like this. I want my son to have a fun summer where he can relax, grow, learn and unwind. Unfortunately, the arrival of summer means nothing in the corporate world. Life and business go on as usual.
I took some time one weekend to organize the summer. As working moms, we have no choice but to be crazy efficient and organized. Chaos will seep in no matter what but we have to set ourselves up for success. Here are a few options I looked into and thought it only right to share with you!
School Summer Camps! I was pleasantly surprised to learn that my son’s school offers a wonderful summer camp program. Different themes each week and field trips.
Positives: No tracking where my son is each day because he is in one program all summer. Kids can play with other kids they know and make new friends for the next school year.
Negatives: Cost may be a bit high.
Calling all grandmas, SAHM Friends and Teacher Friends!
Positives: SAHM and Teacher friends will have a playmate for their own kids. Cost is low/free. Kids can have quality time with grandparents who can spoil them.
Negatives: While this is a fantastic “once in a while option”, it may not be consistent which is tough when it comes to needing to pre schedule.
Vacation Bible School (VBS)! Turns out there are tons of these out there! Summer education programs that are Jesus centered.
Positives: Cost is typically lower than other camps. Education based so they will actually learn something.
Negatives. Limited hours, typically.
Other Camps! What is your kid interested in? There is likely a camp centered around it! Gymnastics, soccer, cheer and chess. I found camps around basically everything.
Positives: Your kid will grow in a sport/discipline they enjoy.
Negatives: Cost could be high. Limited hours. Location may not be ideal.
Schedule Vacation from Work/Flex Your Schedule! I take one week off for vacation every summer and this year it then means one less week of planning a camp for my son. I work five days a week but some moms may have the option to switch to part time for summer or to a 4×10 schedule giving you one less day a week to have to plan childcare! Take advantage of a workplace that allows flexibility!
What do your kids do in the summer? SAHM and Teacher moms, you need to have sanity too and ensure your kids are entertained. We’d love to hear from ALL readers on summer go-to’s!
