Summer is an expensive month for families. As a single mom, I had to plan summer day care or week camps months in advance. When I estimated the expense, summer day care costs me 30% more a month. I decided to enroll my children in a summer school that offers two hours of academic instruction, a half hour of bible study and an hour of swimming. For the same cost as other day cares, I’m getting much more for my children.
Instead of making their lunches every day, I decided to pay for hot lunches so they get meal variations. Otherwise, one would get a ham sandwich and the other would get a peanut butter sandwich every day—and that’s not fun for the palate. One day they just told me they wanted extra snacks because the snacks they do get is boring—saltine crackers or graham crackers—and I don’t blame them. So here I go digging into my pocketbook for healthy snacks they can take to their program every day.
I’m content they get to review their respective grade curriculum during the summer. They continue to read books and learn how to use computers. My boys are strong swimmers and they love being in the pool. I’m glad they get refreshed on hot, summer days. But as much as I like this summer program, I realize they, too, also need a break. So here goes to planning and paying for another thing—vacation. :::gulp, gulp::: I’m glad they start the school year when we get back.
Guiding Lesson:
Eve,
Prep, Plan, Pay & Play . . . Sounds like a summer filled with lots of learning and fun activities. It’s a taste of summer. There’s variety with a structured schedule. You attempt to transition and unplug from the rhythm of regular routine and enter into the openness and space of being carefree. Is this really possible?
What is summer to you? What do you want summer to be for your children? Is there enough of a difference from the rest of the year? What’s going to make your summer a great one?
These are just some things to think about. Regardless how perfect or not so perfect your plans are, the most important thing is creating space to enjoy the weather, the freedom and the time to be together. So enjoy, have fun and celebrate this season with your sons.
Love,
Grace
MissGuidedMom 