Not really "bucket-list" enthusiasts that I often see online this time of year, I was very inspired when I saw a task list that a friend had shared.
I quickly opened up MSWord and re-created the list in my own document.
It's a simple list—black and white for my old printer. However, we have already seen its magical faerie dust swirl around our little home. I have four children, but only two are still young. So, I announced the list and while my youngest son had almost no reaction, my ten-year-old daughter hugged the paper like it was a new puppy. She is definitely a task-master, loves lists and was elated at the prospect of using this all Summer. My friend's list was placed under plastic and they are using dry erase markers each day. But, we old fashionistas have opted for modern day quill and ink on parchment aka pen and paper.
The bonus for me is that it can be interpreted in a few, "semi-manipulative you don't know I'm making you do this," ways when you get to the "PLUS" section. For example, If I had typed, practice your piano or practice your violin—it becomes daunting for them, some days. But, when my kids say, "Hmmm, not sure what I can do to be creative today." I can totally throw out "Oh, you can just practice your violin." And, they don't even know I told them to play their violin. Trust me. It works.
Some detes on the PLUS part of the list:
20 minutes of reading: I'm looking forward to seeing the list they create of all they read over the summer. You know if it's interesting, it will be more than 20 minutes!
20 minutes of writing: Write a thank you card; color; nature observation and drawing; writing a letter to Grandma—excellent practice in letter sending including addressing the envelope, stamping it, etc.
Made or built something creative: My son has "made up a story for his Legos (in his head). It includes a portal that scientists made to a whole other world. Guess what I told him? Yes, that's correct, now he has material for Twenty minutes of writing. He sighed a bit, but you know what...I don't care. I'm loving this. Why, because it's actually keeping me accountable to sticking to this type of schedule. And, while my son sighed, he came back in the room shortly after and said, "You mean like a whole book of people talking." I said, however you want to write it, you can make a script and he walked away...thinking about this. Bonus!
Playing outside: for my kids includes running, walking, bike riding or shooting hoops as well as walking the dog or Grandma!
Helped someone in the family: This is where it has been humorous. "I got her water, I got him water." They literally swapped it out. Ugh. I'll let it pass. Once. But, also I asked my son to help me measure something and little did I know he was checking off the box in his head while he did it. This is not what I had in mind when I copied this list, but if I can manipulate them into practicing their instruments, I'll take this mental note stuff.
This Summer Rules list works because it's clear, very simple and easily accomplished. While at first glance, the main objective may seem to not pass go, do not collect two hundred dollars, but go directly to use of electronics by quickly completing all of your tasks. Not-so-fast. This is really about all the BEFORES! But, I have not communicated that to my children. And, to be honest, it's what I've discovered only after implementing and seeing the process firsthand.
While you can easily Google a similar poster, I'm happy to share it and even personalize it with your child's name. Just comment or message me!
I have April Rudman to thank for sharing your posters!
SUMMER DOES RULE!
