When existing summer plans went out the window, the task of figuring out what to do with twelve weeks was a bit daunting. This would be our second time planning these same months, and we were already sad about cancelled camps and travel. Yet summer was rapidly approaching so it was time to get planning.
Luckily, we have a structure for working with out kids to solve problems- family meetings. We asked our kids if they were willing to use the next two family meetings to come up with a summer plan, and then got down to work.
Here’s the process we used with pictures below:
We started by identifying goals for summer to guide us in our planning
In order to keep us on track, we introduced our kids to the idea of the “parking lot.” This is a place for those burning questions and thoughts that are not critical to the current topic.
We brainstormed the most important pieces of our daily routine.
We made agreements for each part of our routine to keep us on the same page.
One component of our day needed further clarification, what counts as screen time.
We wanted some portion of the day to be a structured activity, so we brainstormed where to look for classes.
Lastly, we brainstormed a list of go to ideas for when boredom hits.
This was what worked for our family. Your own family will have its own goals, daily routine and ideas for passing the days. Our children are almost 12 and 15, and we have had family meetings for over twelve years. This means we have had a lot practice working together in this way. If your family is just starting out, try picking one of these steps and starting there. Even the practice of brainstorming ideas for family fun can help kids and parents learn how to work together to solve problems.
While this summer may be very different from others, we can still fill it with connection and fun. By involving our kids in the planning process, we build some critical life skills as well.
