I spent most of my Monday leisurely doing things, like a bit of housework (that laundry won't do it by itself) and watching the World Cup Match of Portugal v. N. Korea (7-0 Final). I have had fun chatting with my dad about the games and talking "futbol" lingo with him. It's the one sport that he and I can enjoy together and both understand.
So, after that anhialation by Portugal, I proceded with my house work and made it down to my basement when the computer called my name. I haven't touched it in about 36 hours, so it sucked me right in again.
My mission was to find fun things to do with the kids that are FREE, especially things sponosored by our local libraries. I came out with a pot of gold, with the help of a friend who shared a few links.
First site I stumbled upon was Storyline Online, sponsored by the Screen Actors' Guild. It's a neat site that has streamlined video of various actors reading books to the viewer, with some animation, most less than 7 minutes long at a clip. Perfect for my 4 and 5 yr olds. Though my son wasn't embracing the idea of watching someone read a book to him (he'd rather watch Battleforce Five or The Chipmunks on the computer), he did sit attentively the entire time 4 books were read to him. This was great. Something educational, interesting and FREE! That site is bookmarked now for "things to do when kids are bored" folder.
From there, I researched the various local libraries for their summer reading programs. I have never done this before and wasn't sure what the requirements are for participation. The easiest and maybe one of the "cooler" library summer reading programs is from Fairfield Public Library. You can register online and for a minimum of 5 books, kids can win a free kids meal at Subway, coupon for ice cream at Carvel and and all-day pass to Quassy Park. Wow! My kids probably read about 3 books each a day, if not more!
Many libraries host their own summer reading programs and events, so check out your local library today! Not only are they fun, but they are FREE!
If books aren't what you want and you need something more active, kids can try bowling for free! I haven't tried that with my kids, yet, but could be the perfect thing to do when it's really hot outside, it's raining or just because!
Most communities have family activities as well. Our very own Huntington Green hosts a summer concert series each Wednesday evening. You bring your own chairs, blankets, and if you like, your picnic dinner and sit and relax while listening to various artists entertain.
Summer is the time for craft fairs and agricultural fairs. Two sites you can check out and find what's happening around town and the state are CT Craft Shows and Association of Connecticut Fairs. I absolutely LOVE going to both the craft fairs and the Ag fairs. Farmers Markets are also a fun way to have some family time while taking an educational opportunity to teach children about local and fresh foods.
There is so much to do right around the corner to keep kids entertained, educated, and active. We can all get sucked into the same routine and forget about exploring what our great state has to offer. CT is a beautiful state. Go out and find your favorite thing to do!
Monday, June 21, 2010
Monday, June 14, 2010
Tuesday, June 8, 2010
Summer Fun
Our summer season has officially kicked off, with our annual camping trip to upstate NY over Memorial Day Weekend. It was a lot of fun for us and the kids. Lots of families get together on this trip on private land to relax and enjoy disconnecting a bit from the world (no electricity for the RV's here!)
I still haven't gotten myself out of this crazy slump of nothingness. Can't focus. My brain seems to be on perpetual vacation mode and I am having a hard time getting it energized.
So, what to do with yourself when you should otherwise be doing housework and organizing? Surf the net, of course!
I stumbled upon a couple interesting links from suzysaid.com and thought I'd share. Since our summer schedule is underway, with camps scheduled and mini vacations (as my husband puts it with our camping trips...I'd disagree with the term "vacations", but that's for another time), I wanted to see what else was happening in the area. One place I found was a sports facility that not only has developmental skills classes for soccer, lacrosse and basketball, it also has camps for kids at a very reasonable price! Check out United Athletic Centers.
And if that doesn't get you excited, Skyhawks Camps is another great sports summer program with wonderful coaching staff. Similar in the UAC camps in that they teach developmental skills for various sports. My kids did it last year and are doing it again this year. Plus, the price is reasonable!
I'm all about keeping my kids busy this summer and having them keep active, too. My 5 yr old son is definitely the athletic type and loves to run and play sports. My daughter, a year younger than him, likes to do whatever he does. So, it makes it easier for me to drop two kids off at one place than drive here and there to cater to their specific needs. I'm ok with that for now.
I would like my daughter try to seek more of her own identity. I'm glad she has her "one thing" her brother doesn't do...dance and gymnastics at The Little Gym in Orange. They have a class that combines non-competitive dance of ballet and tap with gymnastics, so the girls get the best of both worlds! A little of this and a little of that. I love it! Plus, I don't have to worry about recitals, expensive costumes and my pocketbook! I get to see the joy my daughter has trying new steps, learning proper terms and best of all, have fun doing it!
I love The Little Gym of Orange. In addition to the classes, they also have camp days where you can drop off your child for 4 hours a day, or full day as well. I love the fact I don't have to commmit to a whole week and can pick and choose my days. PLUS, another bonus...Parent Survival Night! Who doesn't love that?
Right now, my kids are at a 3 hr/day camp for the week at their preschool (which, by the way, my son just graduated from last week!) at Susanna Wesley School. This week is Pirate Week and they are making all kinds of things for their pirate adventures. Awesome.
As you can see, my kids' schedules are pretty full already, with camp this week, camp with Skyhawks end of June, our camping trips in July, hopefully Vacation Bible School, and some day camps at The Little Gym. Oh, and in btwn all that, swim lessons!
I wonder what my mom did with me all summer long? Must have been a long one for her. I know that I'd go a little bananas if my kids didn't have some activities to keep them busy. I'm loving the quiet time so far. Gives my mind time to rejuvenate...and wander. And right now, my thoughts wander to wanting to get a cup of coffee, sitting down with a good book and relaxing, soaking in the sun. ahhh, that's what summer is all about for me. Gotta love it!
I still haven't gotten myself out of this crazy slump of nothingness. Can't focus. My brain seems to be on perpetual vacation mode and I am having a hard time getting it energized.
So, what to do with yourself when you should otherwise be doing housework and organizing? Surf the net, of course!
I stumbled upon a couple interesting links from suzysaid.com and thought I'd share. Since our summer schedule is underway, with camps scheduled and mini vacations (as my husband puts it with our camping trips...I'd disagree with the term "vacations", but that's for another time), I wanted to see what else was happening in the area. One place I found was a sports facility that not only has developmental skills classes for soccer, lacrosse and basketball, it also has camps for kids at a very reasonable price! Check out United Athletic Centers.
And if that doesn't get you excited, Skyhawks Camps is another great sports summer program with wonderful coaching staff. Similar in the UAC camps in that they teach developmental skills for various sports. My kids did it last year and are doing it again this year. Plus, the price is reasonable!
I'm all about keeping my kids busy this summer and having them keep active, too. My 5 yr old son is definitely the athletic type and loves to run and play sports. My daughter, a year younger than him, likes to do whatever he does. So, it makes it easier for me to drop two kids off at one place than drive here and there to cater to their specific needs. I'm ok with that for now.
I would like my daughter try to seek more of her own identity. I'm glad she has her "one thing" her brother doesn't do...dance and gymnastics at The Little Gym in Orange. They have a class that combines non-competitive dance of ballet and tap with gymnastics, so the girls get the best of both worlds! A little of this and a little of that. I love it! Plus, I don't have to worry about recitals, expensive costumes and my pocketbook! I get to see the joy my daughter has trying new steps, learning proper terms and best of all, have fun doing it!
I love The Little Gym of Orange. In addition to the classes, they also have camp days where you can drop off your child for 4 hours a day, or full day as well. I love the fact I don't have to commmit to a whole week and can pick and choose my days. PLUS, another bonus...Parent Survival Night! Who doesn't love that?
Right now, my kids are at a 3 hr/day camp for the week at their preschool (which, by the way, my son just graduated from last week!) at Susanna Wesley School. This week is Pirate Week and they are making all kinds of things for their pirate adventures. Awesome.
As you can see, my kids' schedules are pretty full already, with camp this week, camp with Skyhawks end of June, our camping trips in July, hopefully Vacation Bible School, and some day camps at The Little Gym. Oh, and in btwn all that, swim lessons!
I wonder what my mom did with me all summer long? Must have been a long one for her. I know that I'd go a little bananas if my kids didn't have some activities to keep them busy. I'm loving the quiet time so far. Gives my mind time to rejuvenate...and wander. And right now, my thoughts wander to wanting to get a cup of coffee, sitting down with a good book and relaxing, soaking in the sun. ahhh, that's what summer is all about for me. Gotta love it!
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