5 Tips for Parents Preparing for a Summer at Home

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With many summer camps and other plans being cancelled in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, many parents may be feeling concerned about the summer ahead of them. In effort to help parents prepare, we’ve created a list of tips and ideas to help take the weight off of your shoulders as summer approaches.

Try to maintain a schedule 

  • Because recent events have been accompanied with a lack of control over the current situation, a schedule can help everyone in your house have a sense of routine in their day-to-day life.  Try a visual schedule, using images and words to help map out what your day will look like. Don’t know where to start? Check out this list of free visual schedules to print! 

Take advantage of the weather 

  • Although a summer without the normal camps, beaches, and waterparks can seem daunting, don’t forget to use your own backyard (or sidewalk). On days with good weather, try to take walks, play games, and use the nature around you to help your children learn. No matter where you live, there is wildlife around you that you can utilize to teach your child in an outdoor classroom.  

Virtual experiences

  • Virtual experiences are a great way to have school and field trips from home.  Lucky for you, the American Autism Association has compiled a list of a few great virtual experiences that are being offered for free because of current closures. Additionally, Scholastic has made learning from home easier by creating a free virtual learning center complete with daily stories and activities for children from preschool up to ninth grade.  

Camp activities at home 

  • Many of your child’s favorite camp activities might be doable from your own home. Tie-dying, jewelry-making, sports, and water play are all activities that you can try to recreate a camp atmosphere. You can even do a barbeque night, complete with grilling and s’mores.  

Remember that both you and your child need breaks.  

  • It’s okay to take a moment for yourself to breathe, or let your child have a little more screen time than you would normally allow.

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