Strategic Planning for Summer

Just having finished mapping out the summer for the kids, I have to say that it takes one part secretary, one part strategist, one part mathematician, and one part crazy mom determined that her kids will get the most out of their time off. Using the local Parks & Recreation guide, Summer camp guide, and Community education guide, I was able to piece together a plan for the entire summer.

Sounds easy? This was me the last two days: coffee in one hand and phone in the other, guides spread out all over the table. I circled the things which sounded interesting (which was just about everything) Then, I got a calendar out and started filling it in, week by week until the summer started to take shape. It seemed easy at first, until I had to start changing things around as many of the camps conflict with each other. For instance, Science Camp sounded like it was right up their alley, (featuring a frog dissection! how cool is that?) but unfortunately, it conflicts with Vacation Bible School, which is already paid for and non-negotiable. I phoned for the Golf camp and it was already full, so what am I going to do with that week, now? So on it went.

Finally, after much wrangling, the schedule was all filled in and the kids have something to do just about every day. They will be spending some time doing lots of arts and crafts, nature walks, games, activities, outdoor fun at a local community park; tennis lessons; a week at the Humane Society's critter camp; guitar lessons; and the one I'm looking forward to the most-- two weeks of drama camp with a production of The Lion King!

In addition, they will be participating in the local library Summer Reading program as well as the program through their school. We have a chemistry set and other science kits and models to build that we didn't have time for during the school year. They are also going to continue with their at home guitar and piano lessons, as well as having a chart of chores and responsibilities which is kind of new in our house (mom realizes she needs to delegate!)

On the days and times between all these fun camps, we will be exploring our local area bike trails and hiking trails; their personal favorite--berry picking, and of course a zoo day or two. A local museum is hosting a once-in-a-lifetime viewing of the Body Worlds 3 exhibit, which we will be attending as well. All in all, it looks like it will be a fun and productive summer.