Every year, I have such high hopes for summer! Day trips, hanging by the pool, long days at the beach, museums, park hopping, outdoor movies, my list can go on and on. But then reality quickly sinks in, and I realize it’s HARD to do most of these things solo with my kids.
With a super independent 5-year-old and 3-year-old twins who love to run wild, I prefer to have backup when I go out, for safety reasons (and my own sanity). Hey, I’m the first to admit that I need help, and I’m totally that mom who is overwhelmed.
Recently, pure panic kicked in when I realized I had an FCM event (which I had been planning for the past three months!) and I had no one lined up to help! How was I supposed to take my three littles to story time at Blue Star Bazaar, mingle with readers, and keep everything running smoothly? Not to mention, make sure that my children do not destroy the shop!
My mom and sisters were away on vacation, my nanny and babysitter had plans, my aunt had a doctor appointment…As I went through my list of usual suspects, I realized I was in trouble!
While complaining to my sister, and trying to convince her to cancel her trip (yeah, right!), she got a Snapchat from my cousin. You see, my cousin was temporarily living with my Nana while transitioning to a new home. Her 11-year-old daughter was driving her nuts! That’s when it hit me. SHE could help me!
So my 11-year-old helper tagged along to our FCM play date, and she was a lifesaver! My kids actually listened to her. What!? Do their ears actually work? She held hands, passed out snacks, facilitated a craft, and kept my kiddos occupied so they didn’t wander and destroy. We then went to the park and out to lunch. I tried to think of more things we could do so the day wouldn’t end.
Why hadn’t I thought of this sooner? I quickly booked her for the rest of the week and scheduled her for future summer play dates and outings. She is making my summer dreams happen. We’ve been to story time at the library, picnicked at the park, spent the entire day at the beach, and so much more!
The best part about it is her mom gets a break, I get the help I desperately need, and my kids are happily entertained! AND I’m almost positive she is LOVING every minute of being mama’s little helper! It’s a win-win for everyone. There is much less yelling and fighting, and so much more laughing and sharing! Yeah, it’s actually possible for everyone to get along.
Did you offer any sort of pay for her? I have an 11 year old that I think would do great at this. She’s not ready for babysitting alone but might could make a little extra this way!
Go for it! I did offer to pay her, but since her mother is my cousin, she wouldn’t accept any payment. But, I have given her a few gifts throughout the summer and I always treat her to whatever activity we do (as well as lots of ice cream dates!). She’s so sweet that all she really wants is to play with my kids!