The lazy days of Summer are still here but I bet you feel conflicted when you ask yourself questions such as, “Are the kids too scheduled, entertained and challenged?” or “Do they have too much down time when I allow them time and space to roam wild, sleep late, with the freedom to watch, eat and play whatever they want?”

Finding the right balance between lazy days and productive days during the summer is hard. So how do we do summer?

I think the best plan of action is to aim for a happy medium. A good balance. And this is where good planning comes in handy.

I always think the best way to plan other people’s schedules (e.g. our children’s) is to ask them. So have a group meeting with a large calendar and a pad of paper and just ask them: What else do they want to do for the rest of the summer?

And ask yourself: Are there activities being balanced between academic ones as going to the library and reading this summer to sports such as swimming. Are they laying around the house too much watching TV and playing video games? You as the Mom have the right to keep a healthy balance. All kids need free time but they also need structured time too.

For those of you who are empty nesters, the same thoughts apply to you. Have you found that book you wanted to read this summer? Is there an exercise class you’ve wanted to take but have been too busy? Is there one day a week where you can just relax by a pool and enjoy this season?
I hope all of you truly enjoy the rest of your summer. I know I sure am trying to!

Healthy Fit-Fact

Dr. Oz has some surprising summer remedies for sunburn, stinging jellyfish, etc.

1. Bug bites. Rub mint toothpaste into the bite.
2. Soothe sunburn with tea. Sponge cooled chamomile tea, which has anti-inflammatory properties, on skin. Aloe also works wonders.
3. Jellyfish stings. Calm them with vinegar. Fill a bucket with vinegar and soak the affected area for 15-30 minutes. Next, scrap the area with a credit card to remove any stingers.
4. Heat rashes. Cool prickly heat with iced peppermint tea. Pat the area dry and dust on some cornstarch or baby powder.
5. Cuts. Heal cuts with honey. Clean around the wound with soap and flush with warm water, then coat it with honey and cover with a bandage. This sticky fluid contains antimicrobials and has been found to reduce inflammation.