Summertime Balance for Mommas

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I have been thinking about this for the past week...What the heck am I going to do with a 9-year-old for summer break! It feels like the school year came and went so fast. With all the hurdles, hardships and challenges we all had to face in some way, it just went way too damn fast! Regardless of whether you opted to remain doing distance learning or you allowed your kids to go back to in-person learning, summer break puts the pressure back on the parents...and for those that are stay-at-home mommas like myself, even more so.

Last year was different for us, I was still working so we had our son in a summer time program where I could drop him off early, they had a scheduled day of activities and free time, and when I was done with work I would pick him up on the way home. That was great, convenient and he was happy because some of his friends from school were also going there. But after the pandemic hit and schools shut down, we faced the decision of what do we do now? What will be best for our family? We are home, no child care available and while my fiancé has his own businesses and is flexible with hours but still busy, my position was a little different.

With no clear vision of schools reopening I became a stay-at-home mom. 

Okay, so that was just a bit of my background and story so you know how I got to this point now. The point of what in the hockey sticks am I going to do?!?  Haha! Just kidding, but seriously, I did have some moments of reflection and how to make the best of summer break with a 9-year-old. After speaking with some other mommas, reading different articles and just being honest with myself, I came up with a few tips I plan on using this summer and wanted to share with other mommas.

1. Plan in Advance

Especially with different areas lifting regulations, if you are planning on visiting any theme parks or local attractions, make sure you check their website for updates, rules and info. 

2. Get with Your Mom Friends and Schedule Some Play Dates

Remember you aren't the only one looking to fill some time, and I am sure your little one will appreciate being around other friends so mark your calendar with time for them and for some momma time!

3. Ask for Help

I grew up hearing the phrase "closed mouths don't get fed". I think this is true for us mommas that can get overwhelmed, stressed out and emotional. So lean in to your support system, talk to your spouse, to a relative and friends when you feel like you might burst. 

4. Rejuvenate Yourself

Go to the store by yourself, get a coffee, take a bath, sit outside and read. Whatever you need, make sure you make time for you! 

5. Remember It Should Be Fun for You Too

Summer break isn't just fun for the kids; it should be fun for you too! Make sure you don't lose sight of having fun together. There are tons of sources for moms to find activities to keep the kids busy, but what I am making sure to do and I think it's super important for all mommas, is to make sure you are doing something as a family you all enjoy.

6. Be Kind to Yourself

If you are like me, you are an overthinker, feel like you need to keep busy all the time and never stop moving, especially with your own thoughts. But this summer try to go easy on yourself. Don't put too much pressure on filling up your calendar with activities. Be ok with a little screen time to give yourself a break.