Isn’t it amazing that ready or not this weekend, Memorial Day, kicks off summer? Just in case you are skeptical, notice the joy in grandparents as they prepare for a long visit from their grandchildren. They are shopping for things they never buy, planning excursions to places they never go and with a huge smile telling everyone they meet “my grandchildren are coming for the summer.”
As boomers you are overjoyed that you now have the time to spend with your grandchildren. You’re already talking about all the many ways you will “spoil them rotten.” You’re noticing a spring in your step and a quickness in your heart as each day brings them nearer.
Your expectations are that you will have a delightful summer doing things with your grandchildren. In addition to all of the excursions and activities you’ve planned, below are some ideas that have proven helpful when spending the summer with grandchildren. The ideas below will help you maintain a since of optimism, peace and calm, especially after the joy of their arrival begins to wan.
7 ways to have fun this summer.
1. Work on a gardening project. Plant flowers, cut the grass or pull the weeds. This is a great time to talk with your grandchildren about what is going on in their world. This is also an excellent way to exercise rarely used muscles.
2. Give each child a day. Imagine the joy you and your grandchildren will have when each one chooses how to spend a day or half day. This eliminates the nagging feeling that you’re missing something.
3. Take your grandchildren to the park. Going to the park is fun and free. Many parks have delightful play areas.
4. Take a belly dance class. Some studios offer Mommy and me classes. This is a fun way to exercise and acquire a new skill.
5. Give your grandchildren a sheet of butcher paper and crayons. Ask them to close their eyes and imagine ALL the things they would like to do this summer. This closed eye exercise can take from 2-7 minutes. Have them open their eyes and draw their two most important activities. Then choose the one to do first.
6. Boys and girls clubs. You’ll still need some alone time or time together with other adults. Boys and Girls clubs are exceptional places for children to have fun this summer. The staff is very supportive and keeps the children involved in healthy activities.
7. YMCA. Most YMCAs have summer programs that are fully staffed. They provide many wholesome activities for children.
It’s important that you take some alone time. This will give you the energy to refuel and rejuvenate. This is your time to spend anyway that pleases you.
Though it feels like the year just started, it’s SUMMER!
What wonderful activities have you planned for your summer?
