This is one of my challenges this coming summer. In a few weeks, Mateo won’t have classes anymore and I’m pretty sure my active, energetic preschooler needs something to keep him busy.

Once school’s out for the summer, Mateo will have his mornings free. I cannot even begin to think how to keep him productively preoccupied, if there’s such a thing. Ramil and I have initially thought of enrolling him in Kumon just so he still gets to regularly go out of the house for some ‘lessons’. However, budgets constraints have led us to decide to forgo this option.

Since my sister will also be staying with us for the whole summer break, I’ve already told her to help me structure Mateo’s day. The teacher that I am, I’m planning to make an outline of what we’ll have with Mateo each day. No, I’m not thinking of making detailed lesson plans but just something concrete for each day. I hope to just list down concepts and possible activities related to each concept and budget them all throughout the summer.

Aside from this, I recognize Mateo’s need to go out of the house from time to time. So I’ve already told Ramil that I expect him or me to bring Mateo to the subdivision’s playground thrice a week.

Although the playground is not as nice as I’d want it to be, Mateo still finds enjoyment in the slides and the swings. Also, there’s a basketball court right beside the playground so he can bring his ball and play there when there’s no one playing.

Another thing I’m planning is to bring Mateo to a nearby clubhouse at least once a week to go swimming. Entrance is only 90 pesos and very few people use it so I think we’d enjoy it especially with the summer heat. I also need the exercise anyway and swimming is great for pregnant women.

So I think summer will be busy for me and even if I’m not pregnant, I won’t be needing Fastin to keep my weight down. I only hope it’s going to be very enjoyable for everyone as well. Of course, I’m very optimistic despite the fact that I’ll be taking care of a growing baby in my tummy as well. No pressures though, it’s summer and it’s always one of the most relaxed times for teachers like me.