This is for my widowed friends who have kids home for the summer! I know that having kids at home AND without a regular routine can present a host of logistical challenges, so here are ten ways to help you survive the summer with kids!

Create a Routine with Flexibility

Objective: Establish a sense of normalcy and stability for both the widow and her children.

How To Get It Done: Develop a daily schedule that includes time for activities, relaxation, and family bonding, but allow for flexibility to accommodate unexpected emotions or events. Use a daily checklist personalized to each kid. I promise, kids thrive on routine!

Plan Engaging Activities

Objective: Keep children engaged and create opportunities to reconnect and explore what it means to be a family post-loss.

How To Get It Done: Organize a mix of at-home and outdoor activities such as crafts, reading, nature walks, and visits to local attractions. Involve the children in planning to give them a sense of control and excitement.

Create a Memory Jar

Objective: Honor the memory of your loved one (mom or dad) while you create new memories.

How To Get It Done: Encourage kids to write down memories or new experiences on slips of paper and place them in a jar. At the end of summer, have a special celebration and read the slips of paper from the jar. It will help them remember the special times of summer.

Reach Out for Support

Objective: Ensure emotional and practical support is readily available.

How To Get It Done: Connect with local sporting or play groups, friends, and family. Schedule regular meet up’s or check ins, and use this time while the kids are engaged to connect with others.

Celebrate Traditions and Create New Ones

Objective: Maintain a sense of continuity and create positive new experiences.

How To Get It Done: Continue to celebrate the summer traditions that mom or dad enjoyed, and introduce new activities that can become part of the family’s summer rituals.

Prepare for Special Days

Objective: Acknowledge and navigate emotionally challenging dates such as anniversaries or birthdays.

How To Get It Done: Plan ahead for these days by deciding how to honor the memory of your loved one, whether through a special meal, visiting a meaningful place, or engaging in a favorite activity.

Incorporate Physical Activity

Objective: Promote physical and emotional well-being.

How To Get It Done: Include daily physical activities such as bike rides, swimming, or yoga. Have the kids join a local swim club or city sports group. Exercise can help reduce stress and improve mood for EVERYONE, and the kids will sleep better at night!

Practice Mindfulness and Relaxation

Objective: Manage stress and cultivate emotional resilience.

How To Get It Done: Teach children simple mindfulness exercises like deep breathing or guided imagery. Set aside time each day for relaxation and quiet reflection. A great time is after lunch. You can create a one hour quiet time where kids either rest, read, or relax without technology.

Keep Communication Open

Objective: Create an environment where kids can feel understood and supported.

How To Get It Done: Encourage open discussions about feelings and experiences. Create a safe space where children feel comfortable expressing their emotions without judgment. Use conversation cards at mealtimes to help facilitate random conversations.

Seek Professional Help if Needed

Objective: Address deeper emotional needs that may arise.

How To Get It Done: Don’t hesitate to reach out to a counselor or therapist if grief becomes overwhelming for you or your children. Professional guidance can provide you all with valuable coping strategies and support.

You can create a nurturing and supportive environment for your children during the summer. Remember, kids (and parents) need routine, sunshine, and rest. Everything else is optional!

You can do this,

Julie

P.S, In this week’s Patreon, I have given everyone the Summer Survival Guide.