Summer just doesn’t have the same feeling once you’re a parent. Between work, camp drop offs, playdate pick ups, keeping the yard in order and doing all the other household chores when the sun is shining outside can make summer feel like all work and no play.

But summer can be the sunny season again. Here are 4 tips to help get you through the work and onto the fun in (almost) no time.

Just in time for summer:

1. Kick the kids outside
It’s the perfect time to take a tech time out. There’s so much to explore in your own backyard. Even running a few laps around the fence can give kids the boost they need to hang out there and see what there is to see. If they’re old enough to leave them on their own, you can take the time to attack the dishes (how many glasses can they use in a day). If you have a little one like I do, it’s a great time to grab the laundry fro
m the drying and fold it out on the deck. If outside time = grass stains, try Arm & Hammer™ Plus OxiClean™ Cold Water Power Paks. Not only is the price attractive – but they’ll leave your kids clothes looking as good as new.

2. Forgive yourself for “park snacks” on long days
First summer camp, then soccer practice and straight to swim lessons – summer often means eating handy snacks and meals on the go. One way to ensure your children are getting all of their essential nutrients is L’il Critters™ Gummy Vites™, a complete multivitamin that kids actually love.

3. Stick to the plan
You can turn off the alarm clock in summer without turning off the routine. Even when bedtimes and wake ups are unpredictable, the rest of the routine can help shape kids’ days and get them excited for the day ahead. If you need a little help getting them excited about everyday tasks like brushing their teeth, try Arm & Hammer Kid’s Spinbrush and Orajel Flouride and Flouride-Free Toothpastes. You’ll find favourite characters such as My Little Pony, Mario, Spiderman and PAW Patrol to get them brushing – on the double – all summer long.

4. Don’t go it alone
You have some extra hands around during the summer. Might as well use them to your advantage. Ask the kids what they’d like to help with and find a way to make it work. Little things like emptying the dishwasher and setting the table are easy tasks that can buy you a few minutes. Fold the laundry is another great chore for kids. If you have little critics, try OxiClean™ Versatile Stain Remover Powder – which boosts your detergent power to get out even the toughest stains – so you don’t have to hear about the stains on their favourite shirts.

What are your biggest tips for charging through chores so you can enjoy more summer?

Melanie

Melanie from mommydo.com writes about parenting, food, neat stuff and the unexpected beauty in life, all while juggling work, family life and spreading awareness and raising funds for Williams Syndrome.

www.mommydo.com