Tag: Travel

Embracing Summer Break: Ideas for Staying Sane with Young Kids at Home

We’re three days into my boys’ summer break from preschool, and so far, it’s been delightful. Ask me again in 14 weeks, and I might be pulling my hair out, but for now, the slow mornings and long walks are a welcome change. Here are some strategies I’m using to help us maintain our sanity throughout the summer:

Maintaining Our Morning Routine
We follow the same morning routine as during the school year. I let the boys sleep in if they’re tired, and our bedtime has shifted slightly later. However, once they wake up, we go through the same motions at a more relaxed pace. They get up, get dressed, comb their hair, brush their teeth, and then we head downstairs for breakfast. Afterward, instead of rushing to school, they enjoy a little TV time while I tackle the most demanding part of my workday.

Extended Morning Walks
I usually take a 10-minute walk every morning before work, but with no need to spend 30 minutes in the car, we now extend our walk time. We head out after I complete some hard work tasks and it is a great change of pace. These walks are a great opportunity for us to chat and enjoy the morning sun together.

Daily Outings
Every day, we make sure to get out of the house, even if it’s just a quick trip to the store. It’s important for all of us to see different faces and get a change of scenery.

Scheduled Playdates
I’ve set up playdates with other kids from school. This not only helps the boys stay connected with their friends but also gives them a chance to burn off some energy.

Lots of Outside Time
Our backyard is fenced, so I’m comfortable letting my almost 3 and almost 5-year-old play outside on their own. This gives me a chance to do some light work in the afternoon while they enjoy the playset, sandbox, garden, and even the recent puddles from the rain. They often continue playing while I make dinner. I wonder if they’ll eventually tire of the backyard, but for now, they are content for long periods.

I cherish this time together and hope that we continue to enjoy the next 13.5 weeks as much as we’ve enjoyed the first three days. This summer, I’m embracing the slower pace and finding joy in the simple moments. Whether it’s sticking to our morning routine, extending our walks, or making sure we get out of the house, these small strategies are helping us make the most of our summer break.

Mastering the Work-From-Home Mom Life with Toddlers

As a work-from-home mom with a bustling household—including a lively 2-year-old and a curious 4-year-old in preschool—finding a balance between my professional responsibilities and family life is a finely tuned art. Here’s how I manage to get the best use of my time, ensuring everything gets done while nurturing a positive environment for my kids.

  1. The Golden Hours of Deep Focus (8:30 AM – 10:45 AM)
    The house is quiet when my kids are at preschool, and I’m in my element. These 2 hours and 15 minutes are precious—I dive deep into my most demanding tasks with zero distractions. It’s incredible how much you can accomplish when the workspace is peaceful!
  2. Recharging with a Proper Lunch Break
    After picking up my kids from school, we enjoy a relaxed lunch together around 11:30 AM. It’s our special time to chat about their morning and gear up for the afternoon. My regular lunch smoothie is always on the menu, giving me the perfect energy boost.
  3. Balanced Screen Time
    A bit of TV time post-lunch helps transition my kids into home mode. They engage with educational programs while I wrap up my workday. The flexibility of my schedule allows for productive bursts during this quite time.
  4. Outdoor Adventures Every Day
    Whether it’s sunny or chilly, outdoor play is a must. If I have leftover tasks, I set up my mobile office on the deck or by the window, keeping an eye on the kids as they explore and play in our yard. The fresh air does wonders for all of us!
  5. Family Fitness Fun
    Each afternoon includes a 30-minute workout session. I love that my kids see exercise as a regular part of life—they join in with their playful “workouts,” which might involve jumping on a trampoline or creating obstacle courses. It’s adorable and keeps us all active!
  6. Cooking as a Team
    Dinner preparation is a family affair. With a meal plan in hand, we tackle the kitchen together. My boys are eager helpers, from cracking eggs to mixing ingredients. It’s a great way to teach them about nutrition and teamwork.
  7. Cherished Family Dinners
    Every evening, we sit down as a family for dinner. This routine is the heart of our day, a chance for in-depth conversations and sharing.
  8. Evening Unwind
    Post-dinner, I clean up while my husband hits the workout room, and the kids invariably join him—loving their dad time. This gives me a quiet moment to myself, maybe catching up on a favorite show.
  9. Bedtime Rituals
    Our nighttime routine is soothing and structured, with bedtime stories and cuddles. By 7:45 PM, the kids are tucked in with the comforting sounds of white noise and the soft glow of a red light.
  10. Time for Us
    Once the kids are asleep, my husband and I wind down. Whether it’s catching up on a TV show or reading, this is our time to reconnect. We cherish these moments before our early lights-out, as my husband is up before 5:00 AM every day.

Balancing work and family life isn’t always easy, but it’s incredibly rewarding. Each day is a new opportunity to blend productivity with parenting, building a loving and efficient home environment.