Are your kids home for Spring Break? Here are a few simple tips to help ensure a happy and fun week:
1) Avoid the crowds - If you're planning field trips, "plan them for later in the afternoon when attractions are less likely to be crowded" says Jennifer of Jersey Family Fun.
2) Just Relax - Jessica, of DelcopaMoms says "I don't know about everyone else's families but mine runs from soccer to t-ball to gymnastics and back again. One week this spring, the kids don't have activities, we're vegging out! We have one planned activity the entire week. I also plan to hang, watch tv, probably do a TON of coloring but we're relaxing!"
3) Let your child help plan an activity. Allowing my kids to choose one special activity during Spring Break helps to keep them happy. I have scheduled a playdate for each of my sons with one of their closest friends. Doing this ahead of time makes me feel prepared and gives us all something to look forward to.
4) Don't overplan! - Jacquie from KC Edventures says "We don't overplan for spring break because we love not having a schedule. We sleep in on most days, enjoy a movie or two together, head to a nature center etc. Low key days."
5) Expect the Unexpected - "My biggest piece of advice after our break this year is 'have a back-up plan'. We've had temps in the 30s and snow!! I know - crazy -- so have a few things in mind in case you get bad weather. Visit a museum for an afternoon, maybe an indoor pool, etc. Oh yea - Take advantage of library programs during break - they are great too!" says Jacquie.
6) Keep a good balance - Kristen from Busy Moms Happy Kids says "Make them "work" for their electronics time. Balance it with creating, playing, outside time, reading, chores, and exercise. Every 30 minutes they spend doing the above, earns them 10 minutes of electronics."
7) Trust your instincts - You know your kids best. Some kids like to go with the flow and other kids thrive on a strict routine. Kristen uses a schedule to help her kids know what is what is expected of them. If you have a child that flourishes with a routine, check out Kristin's post about scheduling your day.
8) Get out and enjoy your time with your kids. Head to a State Park. Go to your local arboretum. Go Roller Skating for FREE. Go Bowling for FREE.
9) Do something completely spontaneous! When my son and I took a spur-of-the-moment trolley ride, we had the most amazing afternoon. It wasn't anything extraordinary and it didn't cost very much money, yet it was a day I will never forget.
10) Have fun!
Do you have a plan for Spring Break? What are you looking forward to the most?