Summer Vacations bring in a breath of fresh air in the monotonous school routine of ringing alarms, hurrying through breakfast, packing bags and running to catch the school bus. It is a time well deserved for children and parents to take a break, relax, have fun and recharge themselves. But the vacations don’t bring respite if you haven't planned how to use this time, well in advance. You will find yourself worked up  even before a week of vacation has passed, struggling to find ways to put your kids back into a routine. Vacation or no vacation, kids will always need a structured routine or plan to channelise their energies and put them to maximum use. As a parent, this would also help you relax and remain guilt free.  

The vacations are always a time for new learnings, creativity and bonding with friends and family. You get ample time to sit with your kids and engage in insightful discussions on different topics outside their academic curriculum. It is a time for creating that special parent-child bonding which lasts a lifetime. There is no hurry to complete the homework or exercises which come with the school routine, and you can fully utilize this time to inculcate values in their young minds. Here are some tips for you to make the summer vacation productive for your kids. 

1. Set goals - As already said, planning for the vacation in advance always comes in handy. It is also important that you involve your kids in the planning. They will never fail to astound you with their ideas. You can sit with them and talk about what they want to learn, accomplish during their time off. Do they want to learn a new skill? Read more books? Spend more time outdoors? There are many different skills that kids can learn during the summer. Some popular options include cooking, coding, playing a musical instrument and learning a new language. Summer is also a great time to encourage kids to move beyond their school books and explore the plethora of books available. For this you can visit a local library, take your kids for book sales, and sign up for a summer reading program. Getting outside is important for kids' physical and mental health. So, do plan for walks, hikes, bike rides, and swims. Having sports, picnics, camps on your list is a must. Also, include lots of crafts for kids in your list. Encourage them to express their creativity through art and craft for kids, music, writing and dance. You can set up an art studio in your home, or take them to a local art class. There are many crafts for kids which you can easily access online. You can also find a number of crafts for kids on Mumpa. Last but not the least, make sure your list has household chores. Involving them in household chores makes them more responsible and prepares them for their life ahead. 

2. Create a schedule - After setting your goals and planning for the activities it is important that you prepare a schedule. A schedule that will help your child stay on track and make the most of their time. Include time for activities that they enjoy, as well as time for learning and chores everyday. Keep the schedule flexible as after all kids need the time to relax and have fun. Don’t forget to include their ‘Me Time’ in the schedule. 

3. Get involved in the community - Summer is a great time to get involved in your community. Encourage your kids to volunteer for a zoo, animal shelter, or old age home. This is a great way for kids to learn about the world around them and make a difference.

4. Take advantage of resources available around you - There are many resources available to help kids learn and grow during the summer. It may not be a summer camp, but most cities have libraries, science parks, planetariums which offer a variety of programs and activities for kids during the vacations. These activities help to strengthen not only their academics but increase their knowledge base.

5. Make it fun! - Summer vacation should be a time for kids to relax and have fun. Make sure to include plenty of activities that they enjoy, such as swimming, playing sports and spending time with friends and family. Summer vacation is a great time to spend time with your family. Make some memories that you'll cherish for years to come. You could go on vacation, go picnicking, or even think of fun things to do at home together! Also make sure they spend time with their grandparents. 

Also Remember !

• Set a good example - Kids learn by watching the adults in their lives. If you want your kids to be active and engaged, make sure you are too. Get outside and play with them, and read to them every day.

• Be flexible - Things don't always go according to plan, especially during the summer. If it's too hot to go outside, find something else to do. If your child gets bored, help them come up with new ideas for activities. Don't sweat the small stuff. Don't get stressed out if things don't go perfectly! Instead make the most of your time with your child.

• Set a budget - Summer activities can be expensive, so it's important to set a budget and stick to it. There are many free and low-cost activities available, so you don't have to spend a lot of money to have a fun summer.

By following these tips, you can help your kids make the most of their summer vacation. Soak up the sun, have fun, and learn something new!