Schools Out !

[babymaniac]

Any mother knows that though their kids are thrilled to be out of school for the summer, usually the "I'm BORED!" whines start the very next day.Running a business from home and being on popcicle patrol can get crazy.
I have found a few things that help me cope.First of all, if I make the kids part of the business and give them certain jobs (sorting,packaging, etc...) Unlike their regular chores, helping run a business is exciting! The catch is that they must have their other chores finished before they can help with the business things. I do pay them something for helping. It might be actual cash or renting a movie or going to dinner etc... An added benefit is that the kids are learning a skill while they help.
Also, the older ones are a big help with entertaining my 2 year old when I need to work.And they really love if I pick a simple menu out and let them make dinner for the family.
It is also very important to set aside specific time that you can spend with the kids. No answering the phone or emails etc... During the summer I have a " Camp Cousin" here on the farm.The girls invite their other female cousins here for a 2 week stay.They camp out,swim,make crafts,take nature walks and we have several " weenie roasts". Every night is ended with ghost stories by candle light.
Since I am the adult in charge of all of this my days are very busy but it is important for the kids to know that I will take this time just for them. I get my work done early in the morning and late at night during these to weeks but it does get done.
I would love for the rest of you to post your tips for coping during summer vacation.

Thanks,
Susan

[KrispysKingdom]

My oldest son is gone for the summer, so it is life as usual for me. I have my 3-yr-old who has been more demanding than ever though. I have really cut back on the amount of work I do each day and I actually take the weekends off! Unless I have a pressing project of course ;) We are already doing more activities than usual because the weather is nice and Max is not a home-body like my oldest son. As soon as he sees that it is going to be a nice day, Max wants to go out! Getting up early when my BF is leaving for work gives me some time before Max gets up to get things done and helps to keep work off my mind throughout the day when I can't get on the computer.

[CraftHappy]

My son is also on 2 weeks school holidays - thankfully back next Tues.

I usually get up early 6am or 7am & work until 10am (or until he gets out of bed) & then wants the computer himself. We then take it in about 2 hour shifts....unless I am in the middle of a project that can't wait.

I was furious yesterday. He has been downloading something big & has used up the majority of our monthly downloads. He is supposed to start it in off peak which doesn't affect me.

Hopefully we can stay below our limit because I'll be :ph43r: if it exceeds and we drop to dialup speed. A total nightmare.

I've been for my morning walk with a girlfriend along our beautiful Manly Beach promenade. Sun glistening on the water. A few waves today with some keen boardriders trying to catch them.

Arrived home to find my son is staying at a friends overnight ...Ahhh... Almost 2 days of total MEEE Time! As a single mum these moments are rare & savoured!

Gaida