Hi Everyone!
I love reading all of the summer bucket lists out there, and although I haven't really made my own -- I'm really bad at making lists -- I've been enjoying some much needed down time with the kids. Sometimes, the best memories come from those unplanned moments, which tend to occur most often in the relaxed days of summer! So, I thought I would share some of my favorite ways to connect with my kids and enjoy some fun times together this summer.
Wish on a Star
Starlight, star bright, first star I see tonight. Remember this old rhyme? My younger kids and I have been looking for the first stars to appear in the evening sky, and we've started saying this phrase together. I know it may seem odd or corny, but there's something strangely comforting about this little ritual. We like to name fun wishes, such as getting an extra helping of dessert. Who wouldn't want that to come true?
Follow That Airplane
When we're out in the yard, and we see an airplane fly over, I'll ask the kids to guess where the plane is going. The younger ones like to shout out the most far away places they can think of, and then we guess what the passengers have planned when they reach this exotic destination. I like to think of it as a combined virtual vacation and geography lesson.
Watch a Favorite Movie
We have regular family movie nights, but I also like to have each child pick a favorite show or movie and just enjoy watching it together. This is one of my favorite ways to bond with the teens -- especially if we all happen to enjoy the same show! I also find that once the kids are relaxed, they will happily share what's going on in their lives.
Ice Cream Bowls
Instead of serving individual desserts, I sometimes create a huge bowl of ice cream, pile on the toppings and then have everyone dig in. What started out as a way to avoid washing a lot of dishes has turned into a fun way to bond over sharing a bowl of ice cream. Don't ask me how this works -- it just does!
Water Fun
Most kids seem to enjoy playing in water and so do a lot of adults! Whether this means running through the sprinklers or spending time in the pool, indulging in some good, old-fashioned water play can be fun for both you and your kids. It's also a great way for the teens to unwind and just have fun.
These are a few ways that the kids and I are bonding this summer and just connecting with each other. And best of all, they are all practically free. Do you have any favorite summer rituals to share? If so, I would love to hear your ideas!
Have a great day!
Dee 🙂
These are a few ways that the kids and I are bonding this summer and just connecting with each other. And best of all, they are all practically free. Do you have any favorite summer rituals to share? If so, I would love to hear your ideas!
Have a great day!
Dee 🙂