How to Keep Yourself and Your Kids Happy During the Summer

Summertime may be fun for kids, but stay-at-home and work-at-home moms know summertime as the time when they have to keep their kids busy 24/7. Because the kids are accustomed to attention all day at school, moms can't get anything done with the constant interruptions. Since you don't want your house completely torn up and you want to keep your sanity, you need to find things for the kids to do that will keep them busy, help them learn and give you a few minutes to pick up and get things done.

1. Make a schedule. Most kids love schedules. Put up a calendar to show kids what's happening each day. This gives them something to look forward to besides their next television show.

2. Get out of the house. Don't stay cooped up in your house - get out and enjoy the warmer weather. Even if you just head out into the backyard, go outside.

3. Look into local events. Museums and activity centers usually have exhibits or events throughout the day during the summer to accommodate all the kids who are at home. Let your kids get their energy out while they socialize or learn about new things.

4. Buy some craft supplies. For younger kids, markers, stickers and crayons are great for creating masterpieces. If your kids are older, buy them model cars or oil paints and let them create. Kids of all ages can work with clay to keep them busy. Make sure to lay out anything beforehand to prevent drips, drops and messes.

5. Prepare them for their next grade. Most kids regress (meaning they lose previously mastered skills) over the summer. Prevent this summer backslide in skills by setting aside some time for learning. Buy some workbooks dedicated to their next grade to help them learn, and head to the library for some age-appropriate books. Make sure to give help whenever they struggle so they don't get frustrated. The learning during the summer should be as low-stress as possible - you want to make it as fun as you can!

6. Give them responsibilities. Assign tasks based on age level and only divvy out a few to each child. A younger child might be good at dusting or picking up toys, while older kids can take on larger chores such as the dishes and vacuuming. Make sure to map out the chores on your calendar so your kids know what they have to do. This teaches your children about responsibility and helps you free up some time by not having to do the chores yourself.

7. Swap with a friend. Arrange playdates with your kids' friends, and work out a deal where you watch all the kids one playdate, and the other parents take the kids another day. This gives you (and the other parent, too!) a much-needed break while your kids have fun.