Yup, the end of summer in quickly approaching and with that brings the anticipation and often dread of the new school year - for both children and their parents!
I could give you the usual list, and have at some point in the past, of things to do Now to get ready for When - but this year is going to be a bit different.
This year I am encouraging you to face the new school year challenge in a completely different, personal and fun way. Make a game out of each chore, responsibility and challenge you and your children have to accomplish to get ready for school.
The game can be a self challenge - yesterday it took 3 min to make the bed - let’s see how quickly it can get done today?
The game can be parent vs child, child vs clock or (if you are really brave sibling vs sibling)!
Everything can become a game - get creative - folding laundry, setting the table, trying on last year's clothes. You name it, it can be Gamified. Make your own chart to track success or if you are creative a game board. There are even apps for this.
With a homemade chart, keep track and give out awards. Not a fan of awards for ‘chores’? Award points, convert points to time doing something with the kids which is the very best reward for everyone. It does not have to be expensive - game night, family movie night, family bike ride, story time, etc.
Keep it going during the school year. Gamifying homework works wonders toward earning time for fun activities. Move from nag to game master! You will be glad you did.
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