Planning a Fun-Filled Summer

That time of year has arrived again. That's right…it's summertime! While school-age kids are dreaming of hours of free time, parents worry about what they can do to keep their children busy for three months. Although the kids can't wait to have the summer off, the realities of hearing "I'm bored!" and "There's nothing to do!" are all too clear in the mind of a parent.

You may be wondering how your children could possibly be bored in a home full of videos, games, and toys. However, during times such as these, the call for "together time" may be the perfect solution to beating your child"s boredom. CIGNA Behavioral Health would like to offer some fun family ideas and activities to help you plan for the summer months ahead.

Things to do:

• Spend time talking to your children about their interests and hobbies – then plan activities around these interests. Involve your children in planning the activities. This will help them to feel valued, heard, important and included.
• Enjoy the outdoors. Take a walk, start a garden, or play outdoor yard games.
• Take part in local park and recreation programs.
• Set up regular outings such as swimming, library visits, and going to the park.
• Plan special events around learning. Visit historic sites, museums, or nature locations. Don"t forget the zoo!
• Set up a play dates with other families and friends. Alternate days (or even weekends) when you take the kids, and other times when a friend or family member takes them. This way, each of you can get some much needed time on your own.
• Plan rainy day activities.

Not everyone gets to take full advantage of the "lazy days of summer". For working parents, the search for daycare or activities to keep their children busy can be exhausting. If you need help locating care for your child during the summer months, contact your Employee Assistance Program (EAP).

If you work full time:

• Consider sending your children to summer camp or keeping them busy with activities such as athletic or special interest programs. Contact your local parks and recreation department or community center for information on what is available in your area.
• Enlist the help of your friends, family, or neighbors to help out with the care of your children.
• Encourage teenagers to get a job during the summer months. Not only will this provide them with some extra money, it will also give you peace of mind to know how they are spending their days.

Helpful planning hints:

• Inform yourself about summer activities. Get a summer activity guide from your local parks and recreation department. If you are looking at going to an amusement park or an event that has an admission fee, look for discount days or coupons.
• Give time of yourself. Summer is a great chance to spend time with your children. Take this opportunity to reconnect with your family.
• Have fun planning meals. Since you will probably be eating more meals with your children, involve them in the planning and preparation. By bringing your lunch or snacks to planned activities, you can save money. If you can"t bring food, try to find discounts and coupons.

This material is provided by CIGNA Behavioral Health, Inc. for informational/educational purposes only. It is not intended as medical/clinical advice. Only a healthcare provider can make a diagnosis or recommend a treatment plan. For more information about your behavioral health benefits, you can call the member services or behavioral health telephone number listed on your healthcare identification card.