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Community Corner

Mom's Talk: How Do We Keep The Kids Active This Summer?

Each week, your Alpharetta-Milton Moms Council answers a question about parenting and asks you, as the reader, to join in on the discussion as well.

The Alpharetta-Milton moms council is made up of some great local moms who are full of suggestions, opinions and ideas for other moms. We take questions from readers who email us by clicking on the email the author button and then we give our answers to them. We invite you to add your opinions and join in on the discussion by adding to the comments section at the end of the article.

Since school is finally out, this week's question revolves around summer vacation with the kids. 

Here is the emailed question that Patch received for this week's Moms Talk question.

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Q: I fear the kids and I will get sick of the pool everyday but most of the summer is too hot to do much else outdoors. I hate for them to stay inside and play video games. What do your kids do during the summer to stay active?

A:  I have a list of about 30 "activities" they can look to when they hit the bordeom wall- things they can do around the house or neighborhood.I have also been looking closely at the Internet, local papers etc trying to find low-cost or free activities and marking them on a family calendar. Just knowing that there is something fun coming can keep them in a good frame of mind for those days they are looking for something to do.

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Prearranging playdates with friends also helps. I do carve out time for family chores and keeping their minds engaged with reading or worksheets as well. I tie the schoolwork to some agreed on incentives they can earn to keep them interested and motivated. Lastly, I throw in a few camps here and there and a family vacation and I have a feeling back- to- school will be here sooner than they think!

-Teri Harrison, mom of 4

A: I keep the kids busy by mixing up their activities all summer long. We will play at our pools as well as at other pools with friends. We can get out of the sun by going to the movies that all seem to be offering summer programs for very little money. Overnight excursions and day trips are also easy and fun to do. Georgia has many sites to visit.

I do not make them do any school work but I do encourage activities that stimulate their minds. Legos, books and games keep their brains from being sucked into the video games when it is too hot to go outside. Crafts are fun and kids love to bake and decorate what they make before they eat it.  

If your basement is unfinished, let them skate or ride their vehicles down there. It will be cool and they can stay active without you having to take them anywhere. -Tammy Bester, mom of 3

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