Many schoolchildren are home for the summer now. Add them to the mix of the younger kids and you have a recipe for disaster -- or fun.

Summertime can throw off the household rhythm. "I'm bored," one child might say. Never mind that it's only 9:30 a.m. "Mom, he's bothering me," another says. "She's hitting me," the other retorts.

So what are you going to do with the little darlings in the weeks ahead? Ditching them at your sister-in-law's is not an option.



First, dust off the old job chart. If you don't already have one, make one. Each child should have assigned, age-appropriate chores each day, whether it's picking up toys, sweeping the sidewalk, putting away dishes, setting the table or pulling weeds. It's also a good idea to teach your children -- boys and girls -- how to prepare simple meals, do laundry and clean a toilet. Their future spouses will thank you.

Make sure the chores are listed in writing so your children will know what your expectations are and will be able to check them off as they're completed.

Now that the work is done, what activities can you direct their way?

• Public libraries are a bonanza, with scheduled story times, classes and activities of all sorts. Many libraries post online calendars with descriptions of activities.

• Take them fantasy shopping with imaginary money. What would they buy at Target or Wal-Mart with $50? They'll be surprised how fast their "cash" gets used up.

• Teach them the art of writing real letters to their grandparents. The grandparents will be surprised, in a good way, and your children will be pleased when they receive a reply.

• Introduce them to the books you loved as a child. "Amelia Bedelia," "Choose Your Own Adventure" and Nancy Drew will still resonate.

• Let your children choose one special activity per week or month to do one-on-one with a parent or as a family. They'll appreciate the time you're giving them.