As we count down to the last day of school, have you gotten your family’s summer all planned? Or are you the kind of parent who prefers unscheduled days that begin with slow mornings around the house followed by afternoons by the pool? I think a balance somewhere in the middle might be best for me. I’m definitely looking forward to Grace sleeping past 6 a.m. once her alarm clock can be retired for a few months. And some afternoons by the pool will certainly be nice. However, too much time on Grace’s hands often leads to either iPad overload or “I’m bored” or both at different points in the day. With that in mind, she’s heading to overnight camp in early June, visiting her grandparents in Florida later that month, attending a week long volleyball day camp and also several tutoring sessions to avoid the “summer slide”. I’d say we’re off to a pretty good start! Whether you have most of summer planned or are just starting to think about it, our May issue has you covered.
Pam Molnar’s article, 10 Weeks of Summer Fun, offers just that…10 unique weekly activities and adventures your kids can help plan and enjoy. All of them may not fit your budget or your family’s lifestyle, but I bet a handful will fit the bill. Next, our Summer Fun Guide lists details on local day camps and sports clinics, plus a variety of classes, from dance to STEM to art, and more! You’ll also find ideas for fun day trips to enjoy as a family.
If you have a tween or teen, you know this is the age they start desiring more money of their own. What better way for them to make it, learn to spend it wisely and even save some than to get, or create, their own summer job? Ways Kids Can Cash-In, by Kimberly Blaker, offers 16 (yes, 16) ideas for work right in your neighborhood, just down the road at the local pool or even online. She doesn’t know it yet, but I’ve got a couple of these in mind for Grace this summer
Mother’s Day is May 8 and we’ve included an article exclusively for moms, knowing how busy you are and how much you balance every day. 8 Great MomApps to Make Your Life a Little Easier, by Tanni Haas, details apps you can download free to help with everything from daily scheduling to dinner preparations to summer travel. Give yourself a gift by downloading a few of these and simplifying your life.
Happy Mother’s Day, Moms, and Congratulations, Seniors! You made it to graduation and can now continue your exciting journey out into the world. With that in mind, don’t forget to give Mama an extra tight hug this Mother’s Day!