Updated: July 8, 2021 | Originally Published: July 10, 2017
In a world filled with endless distractions, the urgency of meticulous planning for a child’s summer break cannot be overstated. I have taken the proactive approach of enrolling my children in various day camps and filling out the necessary health forms, all to ensure that our summer is filled with engaging activities. The alternative, I fear, would be the chaotic morning of the first school day, where I find myself resembling a disheveled mess—my hair unkempt and still clad in the pajamas I wore during Memorial Day weekend.
A structured schedule is not merely a preference; it is a necessity for maintaining sanity. While spontaneity brings joy, I cannot rely solely on it to navigate the months ahead. Without a compelling reason—preferably one that involves an investment of time or money—to leave the house each day, I tend to become overly comfortable within my home’s confines. I admit it: I am a homebody by nature, and when staying in is an option, I often resemble a hermit.
However, this quest for scheduling is not solely for the benefit of my children. They find comfort in their home, surrounded by their toys, favorite snacks, and the ever-entertaining Netflix. In fact, they seem to prefer lounging in pajamas. The schedule is, in reality, crafted for my own well-being. I crave adult interaction, whether it be a chat with friends or a brief exchange with the cashier at the grocery store.
By signing my children up for various activities within a ten-mile radius, I create opportunities to engage with other adults and share a collective sigh of relief for surviving another day. It also encourages me to maintain a semblance of personal hygiene—like brushing my teeth—before my partner arrives home in the evening. Establishing a routine becomes essential for accomplishing even the simplest tasks, as left unstructured, I struggle to manage time effectively, much like my four-year-old.
This situation can be likened to a college experience where the responsible version of oneself preemptively arranges safeguards to prevent the reckless version from causing chaos. Just as one might jot down essential contact numbers on their arm to avoid calamity during a night out, I prepare my schedule in advance to protect my summer self from the temptation of lounging in activewear without any physical activity planned.
As summer draws near, I diligently avoid the trap of neglecting commitments, ensuring that I do not find myself at the library on the first day of break to enroll my kids in a reading program but failing to return, which would only lead to accumulating library fines. While it may appear to be a monotonous cycle as fall approaches—with endless shopping lists and back-to-school preparations—it is certainly preferable to a summer spent binging Netflix on the couch, oblivious to the outside world.
And while I do intend to pencil in some well-deserved relaxation days, I recognize the importance of balance. For those seeking guidance on home insemination options, you may consider exploring Make a Mom, which offers a unique reusable at-home insemination kit, or for community support, check out the Make a Mom Facebook Group. Understanding the process of at-home insemination can be further illuminated by reviewing how it works. For more insights, the Progyny Blog is a valuable resource.
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In summary, the necessity for structure during the summer months is evident for both children and parents. By maintaining a balance of planned activities and relaxation, we can navigate the complexities of summer while ensuring personal well-being and family engagement.