That’s a weird statement for a blog that promotes learning! Yet, it is so true. Vacations are so very important to keep the mind fresh and body from getting weary. As parents we all work so hard to keep the home running smoothly, the kids learning, and the bills paid. If we keep up a rigid pace without a break we get weary, tired, and irritable. I know that personally I need a break in the summer to restoke my fire. I get tired of homeschooling, being the referee, and keeping it all together. I have to have a time of relaxation and rest to restore not only my body but my mind.
If we are feeling the pressures of learning and keeping a strict schedule don’t you think that our children get the same way? I am definitely a proponent for learning and doing a light version of homeschooling during the summer, but I also believe whole heartedly that my children are just like me. They need some time to just relax and think about…nothing. The summer is a great opportunity to allow your children to learn through play. God created them as playful beings, ready to giggle and laugh at a moment’s notice. Don’t you think they need time to relish in that? Sure! and I am not talking about playing with electronics… good old fashion play is good for the soul. Imagination at its best is freed during play!
So, challenge your children’s minds with summer learning… but don’t forget to give them plenty of time to recuperate and exercise their giggle! Vacations are so important, and don’t have to cost money. You can take a vacation right at home… in fact, people often refer to those as “stay-cations!” Here are a few of my favorites…
1) Take a day to build an outdoor reading fort with blankets. Use chairs or clips to fasten your blanket to a tree and then get inside with your sweetie and read some great children’s books!
2) Play hide and seek… always so much fun!
3) Take a blanket outside and lay on the lawn when the sun goes down… see how many constellations you and your kiddos can point out!
4) Get some fun seeds and plant a kid’s garden!
5) Find some old mason jars and catch fireflies – use as a night lite and then release them in the morning!