In the weeks before school was out, my two kids, now 9 and 7, started talking about their summers. It was a commentary about sleeping in, watching constant TV, and spending their days playing video games. None of this is our normal, and I wanted to adjust expectations ASAP.
I made them a list that said what was expected of them each day before they could earn screen time or a fun activity. I made it clear that summer wouldn’t be a free-for-all with screens, and they would be expected to clean up after themselves.
Our summer schedule does include fun, but it also includes chores
Their list includes normal stuff, like getting dressed and brushing their teeth, as well as what I consider everyday chores, like cleaning up after themselves. If they get something out, they must put it away. I also remind them daily that if they keep their rooms clean, it’s less to pick up each day. (However, the mantra has yet to sink in.)
They are also required to do two additional chores each day. My 9-year-old is in charge of taking out trash, closing the garage door, and carrying laundry baskets. My 7-year-old refills the drink fridge, vacuums, and feeds our pets. Usually, two of these are needed in a day; if not, I make up a quick chore on the fly.
Some days, they also work on their reading or math, possibly both. It doesn’t have to be a boring worksheet; it can be a game, or sometimes we count change.
Then, and only then, can they play video games or watch TV. (Though I have banned YouTube and “YouTube-like shows” from viewing options, because I’m tired of the ridiculous scenarios they think are real.)
Other afternoon activities include going to the pool or splash pad, going for a treat, or heading to the park.
We don’t always stick to the schedule
Depending on what we have going on each day, we’ll change what we’re doing. For instance, on Thursdays, they have golf in the mornings. We go golfing and hang out, then come home and rest — with a movie, so long as they can agree on what to watch — then we hit the chores after. (Assuming they behaved themselves.)
I do have childcare for them three days a week, but depending on our schedules, they sometimes also tag along with me for work when I interview people for the stories I’m writing. Luckily, they’re good sports about it, and we live in a small town, and people are understanding about them being with me for the summer. It also introduces them to interesting activities.
Sometimes they get a treat or are assigned a special “job” to help keep them busy. So far as my tag-alongs, they’ve spent time at the library, played with a dino dig at the museum, helped at the Postal Service, gone on trail bike rides, and gone on endless picture-taking stops.
Then there are days when they just don’t listen. Generally, I take away screen time or make them rest in bed. If they are whining about chores, they’ll get an extra one. It’s all about the punishment matching the crime, so they can learn to do better next time.
Though our routine (or lack thereof) has so far led to a chaotic summer, it’s one where we’re having fun, enjoying a mix of activities, and learning life skills along the way.
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