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Your kids are on summer break, but you're not
How to create summer memories when work is hectic
Sheena Badani
June 22, 2024
It’s officially summer! Even though your kids are out of school, you’re still working a full schedule. They’re bored and bugging you while you juggle Zoom calls and pool trips.
We’re going to cover a few ways you can find moments of connection during what can be a hectic summer.
Storytime…
As a kid, I got bored a lot during summers. I remember calling my mom every 30 minutes starting at 2 PM to ask when she’d get home.
My mom was busy, but my boredom led to unplanned creativity. I specifically remember writing a play about a strange king in a faraway land, casting my neighborhood friends, and then charging our family to watch our performance. It goes without saying I’m not working on Broadway today!
Takeaway: Boredom is great for kids. Don’t feel guilty when they have nothing to do. In fact, make sure they have unplanned time so they can get bored.
Boredom can lead to increased creativity and problem-solving skills in children. Studies have shown that unstructured playtime is crucial for developing these abilities.
My bored kid getting creative with some recycled materials this summer
This Week's Deep Dive: Summertime Connection
While unstructured time can spark creativity and independence, it's also key to carve out intentional moments to connect with our kids. Summer's the perfect time to do just that, even with our busy work schedules. Here are some ideas:
Schedule “Executive Meetings”
Idea: Block 15 minutes on your calendar for one-on-one time with each child. Treat the time just as important as a meeting with your boss. Weekday evenings or weekends work just fine.
Example: Discuss their goals, plan weekend activities, or just catch up.
Find a Summer Project
Idea: Collaborate on a fun, engaging project for the summer that will be interesting to both of you.
Example: Build a complex Lego set, create a scrapbook, or start collecting donations for a favorite charity.
Bring Them to Work
Idea: Bring your child to the office for a half or full day. This will give them a glimpse into your world and they’ll remember it forever.
Example: Let them play with post-its, talk to colleagues, or help brainstorm a business challenge with you.
‘Schedule’ a Weekend of Nothing
Idea: Identify at least one weekend this summer and don’t make any plans.
Example: Enjoy spontaneous activities like building a fort, riding scooters, or a sleepover in the parents’ room.
Reflect: What is one way you can create micro moments of connection with your kids this summer? Add it to your calendar right after you get through this newsletter.
Weekly Connection Moment: Water Wonder!
Your weekly suggestion for a 10 minute meaningful moment with your kiddo
Ages 4-7 — Water balloon toss. Fill some balloons and toss them together outside. This quick activity is fun, refreshing, and promotes hand-eye coordination. Get the balloons here.
Ages 8-12 — Quick car wash splash. Grab a bucket of soapy water and a couple of sponges to wash the exterior of your car. This activity allows for some fun splashing while teaching responsibility and car care.
Boardroom to Playroom is brought to you by Parint. If you’re a dad looking to carve out dedicated one-on-one time with your kiddo, we’re here to help. We design unique ‘Dadventures’ for dads and kids so they can be present, device-free, and create forever memories.
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