Summer Holidays are upon us!
A time of disruption
Well, when the summer holidays come, as with any change from routine, there is potential for a bit of stress. We are creatures of habit. When 40 or 45 weeks comprise the school year, with occasional interruption for public and cultural holidays, families have their routines of work, extra curricular activities. But when the sprawling summer break arrives, there are a lot of days to ensure our children are looked after, entertained, kept busy, while as mothers we have our usual work or day routine to adjust to fit the change.
A time of opportunity
‘Change can be as good as a rest’, as the cliche says. And summer holidays are a great opportunity for rest, holiday breaks — whether they involve travel or domestic time off — to deepen our connection with our kids.
Summer break offers a time for everyone’s batteries to be recharged, after a busy and demanding school year.
Our attitude as mothers can hugely influence how we face the challenges of summer and how our children handle their holidays.
Enjoyment with boundaries
I have a son home from university. We’re enjoying our time under one roof. But much of the joy comes from gauging how much or how little involvement I might have with his time.
Boundaries are important. Age-sensitive boundaries give everyone clarity. I believe it is completely reasonable to put boundaries into place which help to clarify both sides’ needs, interests and aspirations.
I wish us all a fabulous summer. May our mothers’ enthusiam and positivity infect our children in ways that offer them a balance with age appropriate freedom and responsibility. May boundaries enhance their growth while we all enjoy our time together as well.
Every blessing,
Sarah