Spring is in the air. Promises of longer days, warm sunshine, and outdoor fun linger in the back of everyone’s mind. Your child (no matter their age) is probably a little antsy for a break from their schooling right about now.
Spring fever is more than just a state of mind. It is actually a true physical phenomenon, especially for those who have been cooped up inside all winter long, and is distinctly noticeable to those who are affected by SAD – Seasonal Affective Disorder.
As the seasons change, several hormonal changes are triggered within our bodies. That’s why we suddenly feel antsy to get outdoors and notice a shift in our mood. Coincidentally, it’s also why we have that little burst of energy to get our “spring cleaning” done. Could this be why our little ones are distracted from their schoolwork more than usual? Absolutely.
For most of us, our homeschool year isn’t finished yet. In fact, this may be a critical time of the school year – wrapping up classes and co-ops, getting ready for end-of-the-year assessments, final projects, programs and more. So what’s a homeschool parent to do when spring fever hits hard?
We’ve got 6 great ways to survive spring fever!
- Mix It Up
Change your schedule to fit your needs. Take an extra field trip. Plan a fun activity. Schedule a play date. Go to the park. Whatever it takes to harness your child’s extra energy…
- Get Outside
If the weather is warm and sunny, there’s no reason you can’t take a little bit of your school outdoors. Go on a nature walk for science. Have extra P.E. time outside. Perhaps enjoy lunch breaks outside with a picnic.
- Let Them Burn Off The Extra Energy
This time of year, little ones especially may need more freedom to get up and move around. So give it to them! There’s no reason to stay in a desk all day. Older kids may want to focus on trying out a new sport. Create some time in your day for family exercise, such as a walk or a trip to the gym or YMCA.
- Incorporate Audio Adventures
Engage your kids with quality educational content in a fresh new way. Pop in an audio drama and let them soak it up. (Plus they are easy to take with you in the car as you head out on spring vacation or to run errands…)
- Take A Short Break
You don’t have to go away to have a spring break! Why not have a “staycation” in your own town? Go on a day trip somewhere you’ve never been before that is within driving distance. Or declare a “no school” day and let everyone just rest and pursue their own interest for a day or two. Or, enjoy half-school-days on Fridays or whatever day works best for your family.
- Embrace The Opportunities
Find educational ways to encourage getting outside. Plant a garden. Go bird watching. Design and build a kite and fly it! There are so many ways to embrace the season without losing your educational focus.
Don’t dread spring fever. Instead, learn to embrace it for the opportunities within.
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