Darren Adamson, President of Argosy University, Salt Lake City Campus, points out some guidelines that help.
1. Plan ahead.
Don’t let summer sneak up on you. Working during the summer can cause stress if you do not make a plan for your kids that stay home. Make sure you know the options in your area such as camps, community events, local attractions and play groups.
2. Create a schedule.
Sometimes in the quest to make sure everyone has something to do, you end up turning yourself into a crazed taxi driver all summer long. Determine how much time you want to be at home versus other places; and don’t go crazy planning something every minute. As much as kids may think they need to be doing something 24-7, it benefits them to have some downtime as well. Don’t plan so much in your summer schedule that there isn’t free time and relaxation.
3. Make time for learning.
All parents need a break and time to themselves throughout the summer. You need to allow for some down time to do things you want to do, instead of feeling like you have to entertain your kids all day. Determine a workable schedule that includes time at home together and time doing other activities. Find out if your kids will receive learning packets from school. If not, pick out a workbook or project you’d like them to complete and set aside time each day when they can work towards this project.
4. Schedule regular fun activities.
Plan ahead for structured activities outside the home. Sit down with your kids and make a list of all the places you’d like to go this summer and the things you’d like to do. Then make an effort to systematically go through the list, choosing one or two activities per week.
5. Limit screen time.
Many times, parents will find their kids sitting in front of the television because they feel as though there is nothing else for them to do. Make a conscious effort to talk to your kids about the amount of time they spend watching TV, discuss what you think is reasonable and make limits. Give your kids other options, such as reading or exercise and schedule daily sessions. Take your kids to the library and let them choose a new book each week or walk to a nearby park.
Argosy University is a leading institution of higher learning founded upon the principle that relationship building is at the heart of both educational and professional success. Our academic programs focus on the interpersonal skills vital to professional achievement, while our faculty and staff nurture students’ confidence — as well as competence — to thrive in their chosen fields. To learn more about classes, visit www.argosy.edu or call (800) 377-0617.
Their campus is located in Draper.
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