Hey Parents!

For our kiddos, summer time is usually a breather from the crazy schedule that the school year brings. For parents, it often means finding childcare, managing their child’s boredom, and trying to squeeze in a few moments of rest for yourself.

But this summer, let’s pause and thank God for the opportunity to spend a little extra time with our kids — and ask Him to help us create even more meaningful memories as we do.

Recharge, Regroup, Relax!

It’s easy for us to get caught up in our daily tasks — a sink full of dishes, piles of laundry, grass that needs to be mowed. Add kids on summer break to the mix and it can be easy to find ourselves wishing to be anywhere else.

Parenting can sometimes leave us feeling anxious, depleted, and tired. But on the other hand, we know that the short time we have with our kids during the summer really matters. So how do we create lasting memories while also finding downtime to recharge and regroup?

For tips and tricks on how to find pockets of rest while being present with your kids, check out this Parent Connect podcast.

Spread LOVE With Your Kids 💙

The word “serving” may not be familiar to a child, but even kids can learn the value of helping others. Volunteering at a LOVE Week event is a great way to get the entire family involved and teach the importance of giving back to those in need.

As a parent, it might seem daunting to volunteer with your kids, but it’s so important to make service a part of your family’s natural rhythm. Check out these tips to help create a positive serving experience for your whole family:

• Be the role model. Kids are observant and copy what they see, so let them follow your lead. If you stay calm, focused, and have fun, they’ll take their cues from you!
• Have a conversation. Talk to your kids about the event you’re serving at. Share what the organization does and how your family is making a difference by serving.
• Make it fun. Serving others doesn’t have to feel like a chore. Make a game out of it — time them to see how long it takes to complete a task. Or, let them invite a friend to come along — who doesn’t like serving with their bestie?
• Schedule accordingly. It’s hard for kids to be happy when they’re tired and hungry. So, pick an event that doesn’t interfere with naptime or lunchtime. If we’re honest, we all have a hard time staying focused when our tummies are rumbling or we’re exhausted.

You’ve got this! We can’t wait to see your family at a LOVE Week event. Click here to find a family-friendly event.

Engage In Every Moment

Trying to get our kids to talk to us can sometimes feel like running full-speed into a brick wall, but there are ways you can help them get the ball rolling! Try out these conversation starters below.

• ☀️ In the morning, as your kids start their day, give them a hug and tell them you love them. Ask them: “What’s one thing you’d like to do today?”
• 🚙 While on the go, ask your kids: “What’s your favorite treat this time of year?”
• 🍔 At the dinner table, ask everyone: “What are some ways Jesus loves us? How can we love others too?”
• 💤 Around bedtime, ask your kids: “What are you grateful for?”