The Gift of Summer

"We worry about what a child will become tomorrow, yet we forget that he is someone today." ~Stacia Tauscher

Summer is almost here! I can hardly contain my excitement as the last day of school approaches for my children. Its been a successful, yet exhausting year for all of us. As personal chef, chauffeur, life-coach, tutor, social secretary and occasional masseuse for my children, I'm tired too! I look forward to this much needed respite to partake of the true gift of summer break, -- the increased opportunity to connect with our children, to discover and enjoy who they are today.

During the school year, we coax, push and sometimes carry our children toward the goals set for them. The necessary "busy-ness" of our days tends to edge out opportunities to truly connect. The hustle and bustle during the school year can prevent us from recognizing growth in our children and other changes that may require an adjustment in goals. Summer affords us the chance to take a quiet look to see changes our children have made, new interests they have developed as well as areas of concern that may need attention. When we take time to effectively communicate with our children, we too will be enriched by life lessons, and fresh perspectives from our growing individuals.

One-on-one "special time" is the best way to connect with your child. Take time on a regular basis to talk, play games, do a craft, or go on outings. Summer break gives us more time to explore questions, learn something new, and simply laugh with our children. They are smart, interesting and opinionated little personalities with talents that we have yet to discover. Listen to them without criticism or preaching. Taking the time to make eye contact and carefully listen will affirm your child, build confidence and trust; which will in turn, diminish power struggles and strengthen your relationship.

Participate in a family volunteer project. Grow closer as a family as you roll up your sleeves to support a local shelter, food bank or library. Involve your children in choosing the project. This activity will actively engage your children while teaching responsibility, compassion, and leadership.

Another great gift of summer is the freedom to investigate new interests. Don't have time during the school year for a sport or fine art that your child has an interest in? Sample them through summer mini-camps or workshops. The value you place on exploring new interests will cultivate curiosity and courage in your child and train him to continually seek out his passion.

Explore interests as a family through outings to museums, theaters, parks, or historic sites. Enhance the experience by creating scavenger hunts and keeping journals about your experiences. At the end of the break, take note of family favorites and consider developing those interests further. Share your own interests with your child to give them insight into who you are and what motivates and inspires you.

Make the most of the gift of time with your child this summer!

~Sheila~


Copyright © 2011 Gardener Parenting Consultants, LLC