Summer Essentials-Get out!

Mommy & Micron's summer must-haves

I know this post is months late, but for some of us here in the Bay Area, summer is just beginning around the corner--talking to you SF. Though the above photo says it all, there's more to summer than straw hats, sunscreen, swimsuits, shorts, and water activities. Summer means long lazy days, wishing for cool, crisp nights, and getting outdoors to bask in the sun. This summer, I've got two little nuggets to keep me busy--more importantly, to keep them busy.

Lucky for us, where we live is conducive for lots of outdoor fun. Muy importante when we were house searching. Summer is important to keep the kids busy (especially if you have kids that go to school and are on summer break). As one teacher told me, "Boredom results in conduct issues." That applies to kids regardless if they are in or out of school. Even if it's a scorching hot day, find time (maybe evening time works best) to get outside and get some sort of fresh air for at least 30 minutes. It doesn't have to be a playground or park. Your backyard, side yard, or a stroll around the block helps. While living in an urban area, I took my son to the train station just a few blocks from our apartment. We'd watch trains pull in and out. He'd get plenty of stimulation and joy doing a simple thing like that. Make outings fun by playing little games like, "I Spy," or make your grocery outing a "treasure hunt."

Keeping kids busy during the summer ensures that they're getting the much-needed social interaction and stimulation they need. Of course, don't overdo it. Make plenty of time to just relax and laze about. Besides, what good is summer, if there's no laziness involved.