This is a sponsored conversation, in collaboration with iMedX. All opinions are mine.
Parents all over the country are trying to juggle their children’s homeschool life, their jobs, and realizing that it’s a lot. While we were all thinking that summer might bring some relief with summer camps, trips, and being outside, many of those activities and communities have canceled their programs. How are we going to manage summer break now?! Thankfully, I have a few helpful tips that will not only save your sanity, but your kid’s as well!
1. Keep A Schedule– When kids don’t have a regular routine that they can follow, they tend to get into mischief, act out, or have more anxiety. During the summer months, try to get your children involved in the process of helping create their own schedule for the day, if they’re old enough. This helps them feel empowered, and more likely to want to follow what they help set up for their routine. Think of a few fun activities for them to do throughout the day to break it up, such as going outside for a scavenger hunt, playing with a new toy, or having a dance party. While the schedule doesn’t have to be jam-packed with activities, make sure it’s consistent and as balanced as possible.
2. Positive Praise – It can be a big challenge to try to work while your kids are constantly craving your attention. Reward them with positive praise when you spot them being good to their sibling, helping with a chore, or working hard on something they are passionate about. Simple phrases such as “Wow, I’m really proud of you for picking up your room all by yourself. That must have taken hard work to do that by yourself.” You should also make sure that you have a few small prizes for positive behavior. Continue to motivate them by creating a chart, if they are a visual learner. This let’s see them all their hard work will pay off with a prize, or something they are earning towards.
3. Connect With Friends/Relatives – Take the time to continue to stay connected with others. While camps may be closed, that doesn’t mean you can’t connect with friends who might live near or far. You can schedule a virtual playdate or do a drive-by visit to friends or family. Schedule a zoom party for them to talk to their cousins, friends, or relatives. Think of a fun theme and have everyone dress up from their favorite Disney Movie or create a costume with their favorite food on it.
4. Have A Limit On TV/Screen Time– While it might be tempting to allow your child to have more screen time, since being stuck inside, you want to make sure there is a limit. Break up their day with a few fun outdoor activities that they can do by themselves or as a family. It can be exciting to go on a bike ride together, hike a trail, or have a picnic in your backyard. If your kids are into working on puzzles or building with legos, create time for them to work on these throughout the day as well.
5. Working From Home – While our kids might not have school, work doesn’t stop for many of us working parents. If you suddenly find yourself searching for something new, or you’re in the medical field looking to expand your knowledge, why not become a medical assistant. If you live in the Atlanta area, one credible company can help you. iMedX is one of the best in its class, with a commitment to service, excellence, results, and the success of thousands of healthcare clients globally. They offer training with their top tools and technology to help you gain the skills you’ll need. They also offer self-paced, interactive classrooms, to help prepare you for what’s to come. Take advantage of their webinars and training courses, to keep your medical knowledge up-to-date.
Add “work time” to your kid’s schedule, so they know not to bother you while you’re working. Use that time for conferences or studying, and give your children some “free play” time to experiment with playdough, color or go outside to explore.
While summer might not be exactly what we had planned, we can do this! First and foremost, remember you are doing the best you can; and we are ALL trying to navigate this new normal. Do what you can, in the hours that you have, and know that you are not alone.
