Encouraging independence in kids over the summer | Mum In The Madhouse

Encouraging independence in kids over the summer

My boys are eight and nine and this is our third summer of the Bored Jar and also the third summer that I have given them more freedom over the summer to.

Now I am going to admit that it isn’t always plain sailing and that the boys have pushed boundaries in the past, but we all thrive from trusting each other.

Encouraging independence in kids over the summer

Our rules for a #Freerange summer

Set clear boundaries – The boys have areas that they are not allowed to go to on their own, they also have areas that they can only visit together or in groups.

Set clear expectations and time limits – Both the boys have watches and can tell the time.  If they are not back on time, then they are sanctioned.  The Watch Hut has some fantastic kids watches.

Make it easy for them to get in touch with you – and no I don’t mean give them a mobile phone!  Kids do not need mobile phones. We used walkie talkies when the boys were younger and I make sure I have mobile phone numbers for their friends parents.  I also ensure that the boys know our numbers.

free range summer

As they boys have got older, more and more of their friends and peers have freedom too and it is not unusual to find 12 boys playing in our garden or making loom bands in the conservatory.

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Set home rules and make sure they are kept

I have a pretty open door policy and also keep the kids and their friends hydrated with water, squash and icepops.

  • You must close the door behind you (we have a dog)
  • You respect my rules in my house
  • No electronics after six pm
  • You get toys out, you put them away
  • No playing upstairs

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