Is school out? Or just about? Hurray! Everyone loves the summertime break! But are you and the kids really taking one?

I’ve always said school is a lot like a job. Our kids get graded just like you might get a review or an appraisal from your boss. Our kids have homework just like many of us who are working after kids go to bed. You deal with difficult customers or demanding bosses just like kids deal with difficult assignments or demanding teachers. In other words, kids need a break from their work!

As you transition from school days to summer days, ensure you and your child have planned some sort of summertime break. It doesn’t have to be an expensive vacation. Even a solid week of no school and no work can help. Remember the old saying “all work and no play makes Jack a dull boy?” Well – okay, it’s an antiquated saying but it still applies. Your child needs downtime. So do you.

When you and your child spend quality, uninterrupted time together, you strengthen your relationship. Quality family time happens when you put away the devices, stay in-the-moment, and enjoy something together. Vacations are a great way to do that but even a couple of days at home playing games, cooking together, hiking, exercising, or just hanging out can squelch the grumpies and bring out the laughter and fun.

If your child is doing summer school or a variety of clubs, adventures, or camps, make sure they still have downtime. If your teen is working, make sure they still have some free days to decompress. Help your child learn that sometimes doing nothing is okay – it recharges the batteries. And while you’re at it, remind yourself too. 🙂

Curious about other ways to help the parent-child relationship? Check out “E.N.R.I.C.H. Your Relationship With Your Child” – my new book. It includes 14 strategies to help, well . . . . you know, enrich your relationship!