It's summer. Time to sign the kids up for a bunch of activities so that they won't get bored, right?
Maybe. To an extent, perhaps.
Or maybe it's better to give them some time to be kids. For having fun on their own terms. And yes, to be bored.
I'm not entirely against signing kids up for activities. I'm for limiting them. That's because I don't think children need to grow up having someone else always directing them in what they should be doing.
I certainly don't blame kids for getting bored when they're told to get out and play. Too many have too few chances to do just that. Most parents today are far more protective than our own parents were of us. And sometime it is the other way around.
One of my favorite things to do is to tell my girls to just go outside and play. They are normally very receptive to the idea. Then, all I have to do is sit back and keep an ear open for the occasional screams. Meanwhile they're playing kickball, exploring in the garden, digging, getting filthy and having fun.
Encourage your kids to settle their own arguments. And tell them to decide for themselves what is fun. Play with them some of the time, of course, but encourage your kids to take the lead and to not always need you to play in order to have fun. It makes them independent.
Just think about the things you remember most about growing up. Was it the classes you took, the activities you signed up for? Or was it the stuff you did on your own?
Chances are, it's a combination, but doing things all on your own is probably a big part of your favorite childhood memories. No pressure, just time to be you.
Stop listening to all the people talking about all the activities their kids do. Plan any activities based on what will work for your family Let your child learn what it is to win, to lose, to be creative, to get hurt at least a little, to be independent, and to just be a kid!
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