End of school term, hot weather, longer days, siestas, kids at home, kids at summer schools, young people with new jobs, clothes all over the place, long walks by the promenade, late nights...it definitely must be SUMMER!

How will we ever survive - adults try to hold onto  their sanity keeping up with their work, chores and duties while trying to keep their children entertained all day.  I remember when my kids were young, we used to love planning the holidays together - it kind of helped to have it all mapped out in a way that it was fun for all...I made sure they knew what their duties were, like making their own beds (no excuse that they had to rush off to school).  They took it in turns to clear up the dinner table and wash or dry dishes.  They even helped get fresh milk and bread from the corner grocer. Give them little chores according to their age and abilities.  They used to love collecting stars I gave them as awards on their chart mounted on the fridge with colourful magnets.

Once they did their duties, it was time for fun - there were days when we would pack up earrly and go to the beach, other days we went shopping or to the movies or just out to a nice restaurant for lunch.

Now comes the harder part where you have to plan to keep them busy, happy and possibly even quiet!

Crafts galore!  Let their imagination soar...there's a goldmine out there on the net nowadays to get your creative juices flowing.  I did not have a computer back then so it was just a matter of inventing things with like paper crafts, collage,  decoupage, crayons, dough craft...

Speaking of dough craft, given the right weather conditions (not humid) you could even get some Christmas tree decorations ready for the great feast.  Make sure they know the safety rules especially when it comes to cutting .  When they are ready to pack up make sure they do so themselves with a little help of course, with everything in its own place leaving the table tidy. 

New Hobbies - Summer is indeed the best time to try and instill in young people the love for new hobbies and developing any talent they have.  What about reading?  Find a special time during the day, be it siesta time or bedtime and read with the little ones - I do not regret one single moment that I spent reading for or with my own kids - we all have lovely memories of when we zoomed off into an adventure land all of our own.  Sometimes it was hard as while I dozed off, they would beg for more! Besides, the love of reading is something that will always stay with them and helps them immeasurably in their studies.

How about gardening? You do not have to have a garden to love gardening - a few pots and seedlings, their own mini tools and watering can and voila! You have a gardener for life! 

            Outdoor activities: 

How about fishing?  It is always such a lovely experience to have the kids join in even if you don't catch anything - there's always next time.  The anticipation of going out fishing is one to add to the lovely memories of childhood.  Owning their own little fishing rod is so special to most boys and girls.

The Beach:  That is something I think everyone looks forward to especially if they have learned to love the sea from an early age.  Make sure they know the safety rules of staying within a certain distance, not talking to strangers, wearing a hat and sunscreen protection - all these are a must and if learnt from an early age will become second nature to them.  Collecting pebbles and seashells could become another favourite hobby. 

One last word I'd like to add is a little hint to adults to help their young ones realize that they could also use their time and talent to help others - if there is a Summer Club or camp where they can help senior citizens or special needs persons, they can make a very big difference in the lives of others - always make sure there is adequate supervision or go along with them - it is extremely rewarding!

Have a healthy, safe and happy summer!

Best Wishes,

This is the first day of the rest of your Life!

Live it well for yourself and others!

Make new friends - preserve the ones you have!

Let your light shine before men in such a way that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven.
- Matthew 5:16