Summer Break:  A Time to Teach Your Kids Valuable Life Lessons

Summer time is here, the kids are home and our ability to be productive as mom business owners becomes more difficult than it already is.  Sending the kids to all-day camps is one option, but not everyone can afford hefty camp fees, or feel that summer camps are suitable for their children.  So what is a mompreneur to do in the summer? 

I would like to share some of the strategies that I have developed to be able to maintain at least some of the daily routines I had set for myself during the school year.  Maybe you can find some of these methods applicable to your situation:

• Daily Work out- I have the habit of going for a power walk every morning to clear my head before working on the computer.  In order to keep up with my workout, I traded walking for bike riding with my daughter.  This has turned out to be a great exercise for both of us, as well as a way for me to build self confidence in her, and teach her the rewards of perseverance by encouraging her to bike a little farther up the hill every day. 

• Daily Planning- This summer I obtained a planner for my daughter, we sat down and planned fun things we would be doing together for her entertainment. We also penciled in times when she would have to find a quiet activity so I could tend to phone calls and teleconferences.  This way I was able to give her the assurance of knowing what to expect each day, and at the same time teach her the value of planning ahead.

• Weekly housework- Every Friday is cleaning day in our house, and it usually gets done while the kids are at school.  This summer, we are sharing the house- hold chores, and spend time to clean the house as a team.  This team-cleaning project has allowed her to take some ownership of the house-hold routines, as well as appreciate the amount of effort it takes to keep things clean and organized in the house.

I truly believe in the power of positive thinking and making the best out of each situation.  Take advantage of the extra time you will be spending with your children this summer to teach them valuable life lessons. Taking a pro-active role in developing a partnership with your kids, and getting them involved in your daily routine paves the way towards creating a balanced life. 

MBA Founder, Dr. Sherry Nouraini