As summer arrives, I find myself appreciating this season far more than I did when my children were younger. While I fondly reminisce about the days of their carefree laughter while splashing in the sprinkler, I can’t ignore the exhaustion that came with it. Now, with my kids a bit older, summer has transformed into a delightful experience.
Shared Reading Experiences
One of the most rewarding aspects of having older children is our ability to share and discuss books. No longer do I have to read the same story repeatedly; they can now immerse themselves in their own reading. I cherish the evenings when we all settle into our beds with lamps aglow, each engrossed in our own literary worlds. The soft sounds of page-turning and the occasional yawn create a serene atmosphere.
Teaching Life Skills
Gone are the days of dealing with diapers and runny noses. Now, I can teach my daughter the nuances of shaving her legs and guide my son as he learns to shave his mustache. They’ve reached an age where they can dress themselves and seek my advice on their outfits. Our conversations have evolved into meaningful discussions about relationships and life choices, allowing us to connect on a deeper level.
Freedom from the Playground
I no longer have to endure hours in the sweltering heat of the playground. Nowadays, my children are out riding their bikes with friends. While I enjoyed those moments, I now prefer to relax on my front porch with a book or check my phone. The joy of hearing their laughter echoing through the neighborhood while they engage in physical activity is a bonus.
Beach Outings Made Easier
Trips to the beach have become significantly easier. My children can apply their sunscreen and pack their own lunches. They know how to handle the sand and water without a fuss and are now strong swimmers, allowing me to relax and enjoy the water without constant worry.
Sleeping In
With older kids, I can relish the luxury of sleeping in. This newfound freedom allows me to go for a run in the morning before they wake up, something I never imagined I’d enjoy. The energy I have now (likely due to no longer chasing after little ones) makes early mornings a pleasurable experience.
Relaxed Evenings
Our evenings are now filled with movie marathons and homemade popcorn, prepared by the kids themselves. If I find myself too tired, I can easily retreat to bed, confident that they can manage their own nighttime routines. Often, it’s they who tuck me in.
Cherishing Time Together
The most rewarding aspect of summer with older children is the quality time we spend together. The school year can be busy, filled with various activities, and I often miss them. Summer provides us the chance to slow down, loosen the rules, and embrace a more relaxed, unstructured routine that sometimes even involves staying in pajamas all day.
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In summary, spending summer with older children brings a unique joy and freedom that I cherish. From shared reading to relaxed beach days, the dynamics have shifted for the better.
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