It's March Break, and if you have kids and are not in Borneo or the Galapagos Islands on a routine spring trip, but having instead a 'stay-cation', then this post is for you.
1. Stay calm and carry on: Yes--totally cliche, but true. It's easy when the kids are away at school all day to get done the things you need; but when they're home, there's a lot of demand on you and your time. Be present for yourself. Don't feel you need to be super-mom or super-dad. Go easy on yourself. When you get impatient, take a little break: sit, breathe, make a cup of tea, and step back from it all.
2. Go places: You don't have to spend money to get out there: a simple trip to your public library can provide a good time; and kids love coming home with stacks of books and audio books to gorge themselves on for the next day or so. There are also galleries and museums, and even swimming at the local Y
3. Get outside: A good long walk with your kids can help them get the beans out, and give you some necessary fresh air and vitamin D. If you live by a forest or ravine or park, check it out if you haven't already. Bring the camera and take some good pics to take home with you.
4. Sugar alternatives: We all know what sugar does to kids, so why, when they're cooped up with us at home do give it to them? They'll be clamouring for snacks most of the day, so it'll be best to keep a good assortment of things they can eat--without the sugar: fruits, nuts, even chips are better than candy, pop, and endless cookies.
5. Be vigilant: This is a time of play-dates and sleepovers. Do you know the people whom your child will be spending time with? Have you been to the houses they're playing at? Have you met the other parents? Do they share the same rules you do, or the same values? It's important to keep your kids safe while in the company of their friends.
6. Do some good: This is a great time to have a de-cluttering party with your kids: Rummage through your closets, basement, garage, and crawl space and find items you don't use but still in good shape and donate them to a local charity. It'll teach your kids about giving, and valuing the things they have. Will also go a long way to making your house more comfortable.
7. Pajama day: Kids love to do things that are a little crazy--why not go with the flow? Have a pyjama day, and an all-day breakfast, build forts, and just plain lay around. Sometimes kids just need a bit of rest, and parents do too!
8. Movie night: This is not putting your kids in front of a movie while you're on Facebook, but choosing a movie that you as a family can cuddle up on the couch and watch together--replete with popcorn! This is a great time to bond with your kids, and sharing time together. Look for movies that are uplifting and positive, rather than those that are merely popular but full of violence. By not having to go to school, they can stay up later.
9. Be thankful: Thanksgiving is a great thing: it can lift your emotions and release endorphins, while also keeping you patient and joyful. Be thankful for your kids and the time you get to spend with them--they're growing up so fast; and there will come a time when they won't be 'nagging' you to do things all the time. Cherish them.
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