By Rebecca Hastings

Days are slipping away. We feel them through our fingertips like the sand our kids once played in. No matter how tightly we clench our fists, the sand keeps falling. Instead of holding so tight, maybe we need to relax. Open our hands. Let the sand rest there a moment before we reach down and grab another handful.

Here are 10 ways to help you enjoy remaining moments of summer ...

Introduce them to a movie from your youth. They’ll think it’s fun to make fun of the clothing and hair and cheesy movie lines. You’ll enjoy the walk down memory lane with your child

Let them plan a day for the family. Give them a budget and let them take the lead. It’s exciting to see what they come up with. We could talk all about the great skills they are practicing with this one, but it’s more fun just to sit back and enjoy the ride. You may be surprised to see what they come up with!

Read a book together. Either out loud or a book you can both read individually. I find my teen reads far faster than I can, so I have to make a conscious effort on this one. Without making it formal, just find times to slip the story into conversation. It’s a connection you can both enjoy.

Pick a show to watch together. Start with episode one, pop some popcorn, and enjoy a good binge-fest together. While I often lament missing those quiet evenings from back in the days of 8 p.m. bedtimes, you now have time to relax together. Find a way to enjoy it.

Go to a game or a concert. It doesn’t have to be the major leagues or a top musician, but find a local game for a sport your kid loves or a local concert for a style of music your teen enjoys. It’s simple, doesn’t cost a lot, and gives you a great time out together … being outdoors is a bonus! Plus this one doesn’t usually take much convincing.

Be the house the kids want to come to. This one isn’t about parent-child bonding like some of the other ideas on this list, but when you create an atmosphere your teen and his or her friends want to be in, you benefit, too. Not only is your tween/teen around more, but you get to know their friends and see them interact together. Have the good snacks. Resist the urge to embarrass or scold. Don’t mistake this for changing how you do things or your rules. Just be real and welcoming and let the rest happen naturally.

Volunteer to serve. Not all teens are eager to participate in volunteer activities, but once you get started most kids come around and even appreciate it. Find something you can do for someone else together. Working together is the key to making this successful. Good places to try are soup kitchens, libraries (even summer camps and summer school may offer opportunities for reading to children), parks departments, or local charities. It doesn’t have to be complex, it just needs to be about giving.

Play their game. Sometimes teens are wrapped up in the latest game or app. Get involved. It will most likely be funny, but giving them the chance to show you how to do something creates a special bond. Recognizing their expertise helps them feel respected and that goes a long way.

Dream together. Even little moments offer opportunities to connect. Asking questions is a great way to see glimpses of your child that you never imagined. Here are a few questions to get you started: What is your dream vacation? What kind of house do you think you’ll live in when you’re my age? If you could eat anything in the world for your next meal what would it be?

Make time, but don’t force it. Being available is one of the best ways to create a connection. It doesn’t mean following your kids around, but make sure that you aren’t checking out or disappearing every time they are around. Be present and open and see what happens! 

Rebecca is a published author and former teacher passionate about authenticity, faith, and family. In real life, she can often be found typing words, driving her kids places, or wherever there is chocolate. Connect with her at rebeccahastings.net and on Instagram.