Summer is typically the high point for accidental injuries for children. Lightning, lawnmowers, and shark bites? Yes, but rare. Teen driving, suffocation, and drownings are the ones (among several others) to watch out for. Of these, teen driving ranks at the top. So, when you hand over the keys to your 16-year-old, remind them that safety is key, and that you love them and want the car to come back in one piece! (Them, too!)
It's not too late to have a discussion with your kids about which school sports (if any!) they might like to join in the upcoming school year! They may be undecided, and your voice of reason might be just what they are listening for!
That fresh September start mentioned in the title? Your kids can help if you begin now! Organize bedrooms, clear out wilted or ragged planting beds, or even just sweep the summer clutter from the car. (Old drink cups, anyone? You know they're there!) When the kiddos head back to school, your surroundings will feel fresh and new!
If your area experiences dry August weather, don't forget those plants, shrubs, or trees you've planted within the past six months. A little water, a little mulch, and they'll still be beautiful come September. Your mulch needs to be 1-2 inches thick to hold in the moisture. Happy gardening!
Okay, maybe you haven't made it to the beach, but it's time to start tossing out broken and cracked summer gear. To the garbage can (or the recycle bin)! Make a sweep of it!