Summer Reset: Reconnecting with Kids During Break
The summer vacation is a time that most kids eagerly anticipate, but for some, the break can be a bit lonely. The lack of structure and constant companionship from peers can lead to feelings of isolation and disconnection. However, as parents, we can take steps to ensure our kids don’t spend their summer lying in bed scrolling through social media feeds. In this blog post, we’ll share some ideas for reconnecting with your kids during summer break and remind you of the importance of maintaining that connection all year long.
Take Advantage of Summer Community Resources:
Most towns or subdivisions have recreational centers, neighborhood pools or vibrant parks. Check your area and take advantage of everything that is there. Encourage your kids to become involved in local organizations. It can be anything from a group that performs service projects to joining a drama club or a sports team. They’ll gain additional connections and meet new friends in a low-pressure setting. Head to your local movie theater or indoor entertainment venue when the weather is too hot or rainy.
Try a Volunteering Experience:
Volunteering is a great way to bond with your kids. Find a cause or organization your children are passionate about and see how they can get involved this summer. This could involve serving meals to the homeless, volunteering at an animal shelter, or even helping out at a summer camp for underprivileged children. Volunteering can be transformational and create memories they’ll carry with them for years to come.
Take it Outside:
The summertime provides the perfect opportunity to get those kids outside for some Vitamin D. Going on a hike can be a major bonding experience and encourages a healthy lifestyle. The possibilities are endless. Plan a day trip to the nearest state or national park, try family camping or even backyard camping under the stars. Encourage a new hobby like biking, fishing or golfing that can be enjoyed by all family members and get everyone moving.
Connect with Your Kids One-on-One:
Family game night, campfire cookouts, or cookout complete with s’mores can do wonders too, as can a nighttime drive for ice cream or donuts. Use this time to listen to your kids, without the structure of school and extra-curricular activities, everyone has time to share ongoing feelings and opinions. Encourage them to open up and talk about anything that is concerning them or goals they might be setting for the upcoming year.
Evaluate and Reflect on the Year:
The summer months could be right for breaking from some more challenging endeavors. Take the time to evaluate what activities reaped the expected rewards and which did not. Perhaps an intense class or a sports team that caused more stress than benefit should be eliminated from the schedule altogether. A period of reflection will provide clarity for family members of all ages with what with their desired direction.
Summer is a prime time to reconnect as a family. With many options for getting out and about, and activities for all age groups. It’s important to make the most of this time and use the break to make deeper connections with the people we love. As a parent, it is essential that you lead the way in fostering these relationships to ensure they last a lifetime. So, let’s make this summer full of adventure, new experiences, and most importantly, heartfelt connection!
Pace Counseling Group is a professional counseling firm located in San Antonio, Texas. We are focused on continuously improving the quality of life for our clients and their families. We are currently accepting new clients with no wait list. Insurances accepted. Make your first appointment online by clicking here.
To learn more, visit us at Pace Counseling Group or call (210) 481-3727.