I LOVE having my kids home during the summer. This momma bird sings one happy tune when my chicks are back in the nest. But, I have to be real. Once the newness wears off and the fighting begins, I need to get creative.

Here are some things we’ve implemented to maintain a healthy balance:

Technology Timeout – As my kids have gotten older, it’s easy to fall into a routine where we all have electronic devices in our hands. They model me. I’ve found that I have to be very intentional about turning off the computer and not texting or talking on the phone. Technology takes away from quality time with my kids.

Quiet Time – I’ll never forget when my youngest gave up naps. Oh, that’s an adjustment! In lieu of, my kids normally have an hour of quiet time in their room. They read books or play, often building a fort.

Play “School” – I want my kids to have a relaxed summer, but I also want them to retain what they’ve learned. We randomly do fun, educational activities. I don’t call it “school,” but simply pull out the worksheets and flash cards. I continue as long as they’re happy. As you can see from the attached sign, we need to work on homophones (allowed, aloud). Ha! On another note, my eight-year-old recently researched vegetables and made an extensive list. Every week, we try a new vegetable and she adds up our ratings for the vegetable’s total score. This has been a fun project for all of us! We also do summer reading programs through our library and local grocery store.

Dinner Devotional – During the school year, we would read our family devotion when we tucked the kids into bed. With later bedtime this summer, we were too tired. So now, we’ve started discussing it at dinnertime. This has been a wonderful change, one we’ll definitely keep!

Early Riser – I let my kids sleep in during the summer. The earlier I wake, though, the more productive I am. God keeps putting a verse in my heart. In Proverbs 31:15, the Bible says, “She’s up before dawn, preparing breakfast for her family and organizing her day.”

One last thing … even on the craziest of days, I try to enjoy each moment. I’m so thankful God gave me these unique, amazing kids. Motherhood is such a gift!

We’re all in this journey together so let’s share ideas. What works for your family? What have you implemented this summer to maintain your sanity?