Something as simple as going to a local park or drawing with sidewalk chalk can keep kids entertained this summer, and reduce stress and guilt for parents.
SPOKANE, Wash. — School is now out for summer for Spokane Public Schools, and other districts around the region are celebrating the end of the school year as well. However, parents are becoming stressed about not having summer plans.
Something as simple as going to a local park, climbing a tree, or drawing with sidewalk chalk can keep kids entertained this summer, and reduce the stress and guilt for parents.
Kristin Cochran is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who has been seeing kids, couples and adults in Spokane for nearly ten years.
“We run into this all the time, its hard to find good activities to keep our kids busy in the summer, and especially if we’re having to work,” Cochran said. “I know a lot of parents that try to get on camps and waitlists for sports six months in advance.”
Aside from long waitlists, organized summer activities can also be expensive. However, Cochran said even the little things can make a big difference. She works with parents to create a loose schedule for their kids that provides a little bit of structure, and plenty of time for fun activities.
“Legos, or Play-Doh or sidewalk chalk, things that are creative, things that they would consider creative, things that are using their brain to play. We don’t play nearly enough anymore,” said Cochran.
Cochran said, whether it’s an organized camp or the backyard, both provide opportunities for learning and fun.
“Our kids too often want us, or expect to be entertained,” Cochran said. “Our job is to provide safety. Emotional safety, stimulation to learn and grow. You don’t have to take on that pressure that our kids and maybe even society says we have to be the ultimate entertainers for them.”
Cochran also recommends finding a checklist online of fun things to do this summer, so you’re never at a loss for ideas.
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