K

“Train up a child in the way he should go, And when he is old he will not depart from it.” Proverbs 22:6. The local kiddos have finally reached the peak of their existence – summer break! My oldest is currently living her best life playing outside, swimming, binge watching her favorite shows and eating all the snacks in the house.

Can you remember the feeling summer break brought to you as a child? There was a sense of “freedom” that came with these few months and a chance to slow down enough to enjoy childhood. I once heard that we as parents only get 18 summers with our kids and although I pray my children would still desire still hang out with old Mom and Dad, the truth is…..we do. We get 18 summers to sit on the sidelines of their adolescence/childhood, 18 summers to see the wonder of sunsets and beach vacations through their eyes, 18 summers to gift them experiences and knowledge, 18 summers to teach and show them their way to Heaven. I believe summer is one of the most imperative seasons God has given us. It is a chance to teach our children the importance of rest, planting, preservation, freedom, the glory of nature and the bountifulness of the summer harvest. Think of all the life lessons we as parents can fit into a long summer day! It is not lost on me that not every parent has the luxury to be home with their children during summer break (me included), but we are blessed with longer days and slower sunsets if only we take the time to prioritize those moments. I have listed some ideas below of things you can do with your kids this summer that, if prioritized, will bring about a bountiful harvest in the life of your child.

• Family Devotions – take time to study God’s word together, one verse and one chapter at a time. There are many great online resources and plans.
• Chase Fireflies – a beautiful opportunity to explain God’s intricate masterpieces and handiwork.
• Write Thank You Notes – this encourages kids to foster a spirit of gratitude over their break.
• Serve Together – volunteer with local organizations this summer to create a sense of community within your home.
• Vacation Bible Schools – we are blessed to have many churches who offer fun and educational VBS options to explore with discernment.

I truly believe this little bucket list is just the start to all the wonderful things you could challenge your family to do during this slow season in preparation for the days ahead. Our children will only ever know the joys of taking a dip in the cold creek, homemade ice cream on the porch, Bible stories before bed and the undeniable and unimaginable love of God if we show them the stars and the glow of a firefly. I know life is hard for so many parents right now because many of us are just trying to survive, but I prayerfully ask that you create a summer your child will never forget through your action and obedience to following Proverbs 22:6. We have 18 summers to experience life through the eyes of innocence – make them count.

“Only take heed to thyself, and keep thy soul diligently, lest thou forget the things which thine eyes have seen, and lest they depart from thy heart all the days of thy life: but teach them thy sons, and thy sons’ sons.” Deuteronomy 4:9. 

Blessings,

Kayla