Don't panic Philly, but summer is coming

Too often, I'm shocked when the kids tell me the last day of school is coming. I never have anything planned, which works to our advantage for a couple of weeks...but then the natives get restless and I start to hear, "I'm bored." This year is going to be different. I'm making a game plan. Don't get me wrong; there will be plenty of lazy afternoons lolling by the pool, but I think my tween and teen are ready to accomplish something more this summer. It will just take a little preparation!

PREPARE to update the bedrooms:

One of my kids will be starting high school, the other one will be going into middle school. To celebrate, I've offered to spiff up their bedrooms. To get ready for a fresh coat of paint, the kids are paging through catalogs to see what colors and themes appeal to them. They're also starting to sift through toys and drawers to cull the stuff that isn't used any more. With a little work now, we might start painting soon after school ends.

PREPARE to explore:

The kids are going through "The Dangerous Book for Boys" and "The Daring Book for Girls" to select adventurous activities they want to try in the summer. Who better to plan for our experimentation other than the kids themselves?

PREPARE to try something new:

When it comes to meals, we are stuck in a rut. This summer, why not go to some new restaurants? Meals can be tricky, especially when you have finicky eaters; but who wouldn't want to go someplace new to try a tasty dessert? 

PREPARE for fun:

My kids love the arts. So I'm going to the local bookstore to get resources chock full of fun writing assignments. I'm hoping the kids and their friends will write a play and perform it for the parents. Perhaps a talent show will also be part of the summer festivities.

PREPARE for adulthood:

Without the demands of homework, the summer will be a great time for the kids to tackle cooking, cleaning, and other tasks that will build their confidence that they can take care of themselves. 

So, I hate to be a party pooper, but school will be out soon. Do you have any good ideas that will help a desperate mom prevent a case of the boredom blues this summer?

This is an original Philly Moms post. Lynn also writes about the lighter side of family life over at For Love or Funny.