Things tend to change in the summer, less structure and routine can cause frustration – unless you have some set principles in mind. Just because it is summer doesn’t mean you are off duty as a parent or should your kids expect to backslide.

Here are four F’s of parenting for a summer full of fun and less frustration, and yes, they are good all during the year too!

Firm

Clearly state expectations and consequences and adhere to them when your child acts inappropriately. It can be easy to allow behavior to escalate or get out of control in the summer when you do not clearly state expectations and also remain consistent. We tend to slack off a bit when things are more relaxed, but we all know the end result – not necessarily good. Make sure you keep consistent and your kids will have a much better idea of how much they can trust what you say and if you mean it.

Fair

Consequences should fit the crime. Have a few consequences that are in your back pocket so that you can easily respond to situations rather than allowing things to slide by. In the case of recurring behavior, consequences should be stated in advance so the child knows what to expect and your consistent follow through is key to your child making better choices.

Fun

Even though summer can often lead to more work for us moms, find your own groove to create a routine that will allow you to be the “fun mom” and enjoy making those great memories instead of always being stressed over wet kids running through the house or eating s’mores for dinner!

Flexible

Learn to go with the flow – you will provide a great example to your children when they see things not going as planned and you are willing to quickly change gears. If you have an outside activity planned and you wake up to rain, make sure you have a back up plan you can quickly engage without a lot of drama!

Source: Susan Heid, The Confident Mom™