Summertime, what a joy! To explore new things and get out in the world. To be creative, not be stressed about school, and to not have to procrastinate about doing homework. We get a fresh start to try new things, and maybe to be seen by others in a different way. Also, kids are more active in the summer than during the school year. Summer when we get to try new things, get to know ourselves better, and focus on the things we love to do.
As a kid, the most important thing to us is to explore new things and get out in the world. For example Ella, is trying diving for the first time. She loves it and now may have a new sport to explore. Audrey loves playing tennis; the break from school allows her to play everyday. She has been trying different tennis camps and doing something she loves all of the time. In school, kids do not get to express themselves as much as they do in camps during the summer. For example, on a tennis court Audrey feels much better about herself and has developed more confidence more than when sitting in a desk at school. School is also what causes kids a lot of stress, but during the summer kids can let it all out.
Even though most of us Floridians believe summer to be year long, we have officially reached the season of popsicles and swimming. Summer has many delicious foods that don’t fit into our winter and fall routines. We love “summer” food, and now is our time to splurge on lemonade, BBQ, and ice cream. It is also, a time when many fruits and veggies are in season, so they are more readily available and we have the time to relax and enjoy them. With all the running around we are doing we need healthy and nutritious meals, so summer makes eating healthy even easier and yummy!
As much as we love summer, it also brings out the competition between friends. Social media allows everyone to show what they are doing, this can lead to disappointment for those who are unable to have the once-in-a-lifetime experiences that they are witnessing their friends having. It is important to remember that Miami is a big tourist city and that there are so many fun things to do around here. Many families go down to Miami Beach for a “staycation.” Daily trips to the bowling alley, Wynwood Walls or the pool are just as Instagram worthy as a trip to an exotic destination.
The thought of moving on to the next big thing is scary, but we must have the courage to power through. As the words from one of the greatest beginning songs of all time says, “Summer dreams ripped at the seams, but oh those summer nights!”