Make Time for Downtime this Summer

     One of the best things about the first day of summer vacation is sleeping in and making pancakes while the kiddos stay in their pj’s and watch early morning cartoons. Of course, the time soon comes to do chores, walk the dogs, go swimming, have slumber parties, head to camp, play baseball … the list goes on—and it’s all good. Though the stuff of summer is sweet, we parents need to remember the value in making sure kids get some downtime this summer.

   Downtime is simply time to relax, which supports good mental health, an essential part of your children’s learning. As they relax, they can think clearly with a positive attitude and reflect on their emotions, which promotes better behavior. As we know, stress is inevitable even for children. Too much can have a negative impact on their health, social interactions and performance in school. Downtime ensures stress does not become overwhelming.

    Public libraries have reading programs that encourage youngsters to find books that engage and match their interests. This is a nice way to make sure they don’t lose their ability to concentrate and to keep them reading through the summer months.

     Another nice way to create peaceful times is to play games. Board games make for family fun minus electronics or time constraints. Try learning a new card game or play checkers or mancala.

     Making a calendar together is another fun idea. Not on the computer, but with poster board, pieces of construction paper and tape. Brainstorm ideas and write them on the pieces of paper, then pick days to stick them on. For example, write flying kites, grocery store, swimming, play dough, ice cream store, movies, bake cookies or volunteer at the animal shelter. A dry erase board also works and is changeable, so you can add as the summer progresses. Plan around your children’s activities and practices, so they can spend time doing things they love and look forward to.

     Sleep is another form of downtime. Make sure your kids snooze plenty, whether camping in a tent in the yard or on a pallet in the living room after a movie.

     Also plan time with family and friends, which gives children the chance to socialize and build enriching relationships. They will learn skills like cooperation, problem-solving, patience and different ways of interacting with others. They’ll also forge lasting bonds with relatives and pals.

     By creating that calendar together and conversing often about making deliberate activity choices, you can teach kids to prioritize their time. They’ll begin to consider the benefits of downtime, the sweetness of free, unstructured play and the fun of running with their imaginations.

     Another thing to note is that physical activity during downtime can reinforce all these ideas. It can reduce stress and help make sure kids are tired at the end of the day.

     If your children’s current schedule involves practices and games every day, try scaling back. Discuss how many free days or hours they have within a week. During the summer, children benefit from three solid weeks of downtime for every one week of intense activity or camps. Discuss what hobbies, sports or clubs they have the most interest in. If they don’t want to quit anything, talk with the Scout leader or coach and ask whether your youngster can take some days off. Remember, don’t overschedule your child. Raising high achievers is nice, and they may hit home runs at every baseball game, but they also want to jump in the lake or just walk the dog.

Focus on having fun this summer, and you’ll find the downtime will create itself. Play in the yard, plant a tree or vegetables, take a walk as a family, ride bikes or scooters together and visit a local park or playground. These rich and engaging activities can get help your children both grow and get involved in their community and with their friends.

Sources: TheMomHour.com, Playworld.com