Ways to Keep Your Kid Out of Trouble This Summer

Summertime is here! The weather is weathering! The block is hot, as they say. And if we know anything by now, we know it’s getting hotter. School is out and kids need stuff to do. I bet you’re wondering how you’re going to keep your kid out of trouble this summer. No worries. I’ve found […]

Ways to Keep Your Kid Out of Trouble This Summer

Summertime is here! The weather is weathering! The block is hot, as they say. And if we know anything by now, we know it’s getting hotter. School is out and kids need stuff to do.

I bet you’re wondering how you’re going to keep your kid out of trouble this summer. No worries. I’ve found a couple tactics that should work just fine.

But first things first, let’s be clear. You need a plan. These aren’t the type of kids where you can just wing it. Nope. You have to be ahead of the game if you want to keep these kids attention.

If you haven’t prepared already, no worries, let’s get you on track and ready for the summer.

First things first, set some time aside with your children and create a family vision board. Sit down at the kitchen table and go to work. Ask your kids what are some things that they would like to do or accomplish this summer. Ask them what skills they would like to learn as well as something fun to do. Once this vision board is complete, you are in business!

Also, be clear in your rules and boundaries for the summer. Be plain and direct. Discuss choirs, play time, whereabouts, electronic usage, etc. don’t leave anything out and make rules clear.

Next take the time to read and desire the desires of their hearts this summer as well as yours. Use a calendar to make these things a reality. Visit fun places and go on adventures. Try new things.

Find your child programs where they can learn new things or improve their skills. Sign them up for summer camps and programs where they can mingle with others.

Make time for family trips. Show the kids new things. Take them places they’ve never been. Let them bring a friend. Make memories.

Put the kids to work. Allow room for assisting and interning. Let them volunteer places or even get a summer job. Learning is everything. Don’t forget to give breaks. Allow time for them to do absolutely nothing as well.

Reward great behavior. If your child is following your rules and participating in activities, being a help around the house, obeying boundaries, reward them. Buy them something nice. Take them to their favorite place. Let them attend an event or a concert that they’d love.

Lastly, surprise your kid. Do spontaneous things. Don’t tell them everything that’s in store for the summer. Plan something cool that you know they’d love and do it!

These are things that can keep your kid free but focused and out of trouble this summer. It’s going to take some effort to get there and make it happen but it’s possible. Let’s have an amazing summer with the kids and KEEP THEM OUT OF TROUBLE.

-LaShawnda S. Wilkins (@speaklifeshawnie)