School is out for summer, but work isn’t! If you are a working parent with little ones, you have probably wondered how you are possibly going to juggle the kids being off school while you still have to work!

Summer is an exciting time that can come with summer camps, vacations, holidays, and more. As a working parent, you may be thinking to yourself, “how can I fit all of this in while still having to work?” The good news is, you can still make great memories with your children in the summer while getting your work done by trying some of the tips below!

• Make the most of the time that you have. Plan activities in advance. Use a family calendar to keep track of everyone’s schedules.
• Spend as much time outdoors as you can! There are many benefits to playing outside for kids and it is a great way to make memories with your children. Go for a walk, blow bubbles, do sidewalk chalk, even if its just 10 minutes a day!
• Explore the idea of a flexible work arrangement. Will your job allow you to adjust your hours for summer or work more remote days? If you cannot make those types of accommodations, try to be as productive as you can at work so you can keep your time off as your personal time!
• Stay connected with your kids. “Check in” with your kids daily. Ask them how their day went and if there is anything they want to share. In my family, at dinner time we go around and everyone shares the best part of their day and if there were any hard parts in the day. This can go a long way when you feel like you have missed some summer moments with the kids while you’re working.
• Maximize your weekends. Plan short trips, attend local fairs, festivals, and farmers markets. You may not be able to go take a week long vacation, but can you make your weekends a mini vacation?

When you are a working parent, you may find yourself feeling guilty about not being able to be at home with your kids in the summer. You can still make the most of your time by trying the tips mentioned and remembering that you are making memories too!

Written By: Erin Ruggiero, Family and Consumer Sciences Educator, Ohio State University Extension Medina County, ruggiero.46@osu.edu

Reviewed by: Shannon Carter, Family and Consumer Sciences Educator, Ohio State University Extension Fairfield County, carter.413@osu.edu

References:

https://www.healthychildren.org/English/family-life/power-of-play/Pages/playing-outside-why-its-important-for-kids.aspx

https://fit.sanfordhealth.org/blog/checking-in-with-your-kids