Thank goodness it seems like we are going to be able to get outside more, go to parks and enjoy the spring weather!
But it is good to have some strategies in place when children are home for long periods of time, especially with summer vacation around the corner.
Parents need to be on the same page with ideas of how much computer and TV time their kids have, how much reading books time and how much physical activity time. They need to set boundaries and limits and back each other up.
This is not something you want "to make it up as you go" or " wing it".
Sit down with your spouse and decide these things together away from the children. You need to be a unified front. If you disagree on some things, you might need to compromise. Listen to each other to understand each other's point of view.
It is best to put together a schedule and have it on the wall where everyone can see it. If your children are older, 12 years or more, have them express their ideas after you and your spouse have put together a draft schedule with rules and limits.
It is good that children feel they have some say in the schedule, it will help them take more ownership of the rules, limits and boundaries.
As the children get older, the schedule will need to be tweaked to accommodate their needs.
LifeHakx interview below:
