Episode 5: The Kids are Ready for Summer - Are You? Middle School/HS Edition

EPISODE 5: The Kids are Ready for Summer - Are You?

Middle School/HS Edition

With special guest host, Rebecca’s 15 year old son, Joey! Learn how to create balance with screens, IRL (In Real Life Activities) and how to use summer to level up (or discover) your passions and interests!

Summary

In this conversation, Rebecca and her teen son, Joey, discuss various summer activities and strategies for parents to engage their children during the summer months. They explore the importance of balancing free time with productive hobbies, navigating summer camps, and finding alternative activities. The conversation also touches on encouraging reading and learning, as well as utilizing online resources for last-minute opportunities.

Takeaways

• Summer camps can provide structured activities for children.
• Encouraging children to explore hobbies can lead to personal growth.
• It's important to have a plan for free time to avoid excessive screen time.
• Using resources like ChatGPT can help find suitable camps and activities.
• Volunteering can be a fulfilling way to spend summer days.
• Parents should communicate with their children about their interests and goals.
• Reading can be encouraged by providing a variety of genres.
• Online learning platforms offer flexible options for summer education.
• Creating a bucket list can make summer more exciting.
• Engaging in social activities is healthier than solo screen time.

Links to other companies/podcasts mentioned in Ep 5:
Let Grow Project When Parents Step Back, Kids Step UP
Screen Sense IRL Summer Packet-Screen time alternatives, contracts, and positive creative uses of tech

Pixel Parenting: What Parents need to now about video game research on Spotify or Apple

Pixel Parenting: Brains, Screens, and Connection with Rebecca Walsh on

Chapters

• (00:00:00) - Sumer Plans for Teens
• (00:01:12) - Are My Kids Ready for Summer?
• (00:04:58) - Balancing Downtime and Activities
• (00:09:03) - Navigating Camp Choices
• (00:12:49) - Finding Activities with Technology
• (00:13:48) - Navigating Screen Time and Gaming
• (00:16:09) - Creative Uses of Technology
• (00:19:36) - Engaging Alternatives to Screens
• (00:21:20) - Creating a 'Bucket List'
• (00:22:37) - Encouraging Reading in Teens
• (00:22:39) - Finding Volunteer Opportunities and Camps