2 of 6

Write now Article Tools

Our children are antsy, their teachers are cranky, and we are worried. Summer looms just over the horizon, the end of the school year is full of activity and the usual Graduation parties are a few weeks away. We create and facilitate a plan at the end of every school year to ensure that the transition is smooth from school to Summer break for us and for our children.

Our list includes several different sections of things that need to be done or will need to be done in the near future. It allows every person in our family to know what to expect and what our direction is for school vacation.

Section 1: Days Off. My husband and I both realize that there will be days that one or both of us need to be off to participate in activities such as "field" days. These are the days that schools usually plan at the end of the school year for kids to just have fun. They generally include baseball games, cookouts, contests and more. Your school will thank you if you can agree to be there as a chaperone.

Section 2: Parties. I make a list of the parents I need to talk to about planned parties, sleep overs and get togethers. Once I know what days I will need to be off for a party or play date, I can revise section 1 and keep my employers happy.

Section 3: Babysitters. Included in this list is the names and contact information of at least 2 babysitters. I also include 2 family members who can be called upon for back up if both babysitters suddenly come down with chicken pox.

Section 4: The Shopping List. I plan for the meals that a babysitter will need to feed my children when I cannot be home with them. I include everything needed to make a good meal so that I can cook for one day, and fill the freezer with containers that can be easily microwaved and given to my kids. I also check the first aid kit to be sure that everything is there that is needed to deal with the usual bumps, bruises and scrapes that occur throughout the Summer.

Section 5: Emergency Numbers. This is a list of both my husband's and my contact numbers, a reliable family member's phone number, and the neighbor's phone number. My sitters are all instructed to call 911 should there be an emergency, but it helps to have the other information available so that we can be reached if this situation occurs.

Section 6: Daily Schedule. This will include any sports or extra activities that my kids might have going on throughout the summer. My husband and I review it each night to make sure plan for being home on time and ready to watch their game or recital. If we know we can't make it on time, we call in reinforcements who will make sure that Johnny makes it on time.

Our list is a general starting place for you. Your list may look similar, may have additional sections or may be shorter depending on your situation. Our suggestion is to simply make your list and facilitate it to have an easy, smooth move from one season to the next. We guarantee, it is one of the saving graces available to us in this world!

Learn more about this author, Melanie Winters.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.

Add your voice

Know something about Parents' survival guide for end of school year rituals?
We want to hear your view. Write now!