This is a monthly series that we will update each year as the particular month arrives. Much of each post will be good from year to year, and because parenting is often challenging, we want to present tools and strategies that might be helpful, in this case, for parenting in August.
Here are the things we’re learning and loving in August! We will talk about a few things that we are learning and loving in our lives right now. This may include recipes, books, movies and tips for life in the middle of the sandwich, etc.
Here are some ideas for parenting in August, and be sure to check out the best deals to look for in August down below. (see our July post here)
**This post contains affiliate links, which means if you click on a link and make a purchase, we may receive a small commission. As Amazon Associates we earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see the full disclosure in the foot bar.
Parenting in August: Learning
One thing I have learned about myself is that I do NOT like working out. If I don’t do a workout of some sort in the morning, then I don’t do one. Also, it is really hard for me to motivate myself.
I have found this new type of jump rope that I am going to try. It is the coolest thing, and I LOVED to jump rope when I was a girl! Here are ropeless options. There are even some fun items of “jump” workout clothing if you are into that (just scroll down the page)…
The technology that makes these different is pretty cool, and to think that we used to think rope was great as a kid? Did you know that you can burn 1,074 calories per hour when jumping rope? I don’t plan to jump for an hour, but I would love to build up to 30 minutes. That would still be 537 calories burned! These products are HSA/FSA Eligible.
**Do you have young adult power of attorney for your teen? This is not a subject any of us like to talk about, but having experienced this problem myself, I highly recommend you take care of this before they leave for college or wherever! Check out this blog post for more information: Things You Need To Know When Your Teen Turns 18.
Parenting in August: Books to read
Non-fiction:
Red Notice: A True Story of High Finance, Murder, and One Man’s Fight for Justice by Bill Browder
I was not expecting to like this book so much when I started it. So interesting. This guy is only a year older than me, but what an amazing life he has had!
This book reads like a real-life John Grisham or Robert Ludlum novel. You cannot put it down.
Browder heads for Russia just after the Soviet Union breaks up, and the adventures go from there. As an investigative journalist, he uncovers corruption, murder plots, and makes several enemies -one of which is Vladimir Putin. I cannot sum up everything that happens, but your head will spin!
There is a sequel –Freezing Order which is on my list.
Fiction:
I recently finished Summer Hours at the Robbers Library by Sue Halpern, and loved it. Several characters in this story come together in the public library in a tiny town in New Hampshire.
Kit is the librarian, Sunny is a teen serving community service hours at the library, and Rusty is a stranger who is searching for his history in the little town. Each of these three has a back story of loneliness that is gradually spun out in their various storylines. They gradually get to know one another and form a unique relationship with one another.
Several other secondary characters add so much color to this story! I especially loved “The Four” -read the book to find out who these fun characters are!
Parenting in August: Grandparenting
Here are 3 simple and free activities to do with your grandkids that are really fun.
- Leave out some old boxes for them to play with or in. Provide some markers for them to decorate with. Instant fun for them!
- Look through old photo albums with your grands. My grandson loves to see pictures of his daddy when he was a little boy.
- Bake together. Have the ingredients laid out for their favorite cookies or muffins. They love to help!
*I love finding out things that are cool for this monthly blog post. If you ever find out something that is helpful or interesting, please share with me!
Parenting in August: Shows to watch
Have you checked out the show on Netflix called Down To Earth with Zac Ephron? It is a travel based docu-series. Zac travels to new countries and cultures each episode and learns about sustainability for our planet and all species on it.
He and a friend try local foods, visit different people and schools. Each episode introduces ways that we can help our environment. I really like the way that he encourages even tiny steps that are doable!
Parenting in August: Game to play
Summer is the perfect time for an outdoor game. Bocce ball is great! Think outdoor bowling… This set comes with a convenient carrying case!
Parenting in August: Gadgets to try
Have you heard about Folex? It is an amazing stain remover! My girlfriend recommended it. She said it would remove stains from carpet, furniture, even my dirty white sneakers… I bought some, and she was right. This stuff is awesome! I now have a bottle upstairs and down, and I use it all the time!
These are the cutest (and useful!) wine bottle toppers! I just received one in a goodie bag, and it’s great! You can even put your wine bottle down sideways, and it won’t leak!
Parenting in August: Clothing
Love this top for end-of-summer/early fall -the sleeves are really cute!
Wide Leg Palazzo Linen Pants -my new school is business casual -ridiculous when you are working with kids in my opinion… These look very comfy, and they have pockets.
Parenting in August: Quote
“Cause a little bit of summer is what the whole year is about.“ —John Mayer
Don’t you just love summer? There are so many things that can only be enjoyed in the summer! So, take time to “smell the roses”, and enjoy this time with your teens!
Parenting in August: Holidays to remember
National Mahjong Day (1), National Chocolate Chip Cookie Day (4), National Book Lover’s Day (9), Global Forgiveness Day (27) –we all need this!, International Bacon Day (the Saturday before Labor Day)
Speaking of mahjong, here is a great post full of great ideas for playing and gifting all things MJ!
Parenting in August: Aging parents
Something that my parents have enjoyed as they have gotten older are pedicures. My dad doesn’t want his nails painted, but he loves the foot soak and rub that he gets once a month. Gift your mom (or dad!) with a pedicure -they will love it!
As they age, their toenails grow thicker and are much more difficult to trim. Here is a set of heavy-duty nail trimming tools you can use at home, if they are resistant to going out for a pedicure.
Parenting in August: Deals to look for
Lots of tech deals for the upcoming school year -so look for deals on laptops, etc.
Look for great deals on patio and other outdoor furniture!
Parenting in August: Helpful posts
Best Conversations to Have With Your Teen -What to Know About College
9 Tips and Tricks To Get Scholarships
The Truth About Student Loan Debt
15+ Best Gift Guides for Teens
Best Conversations to Have With Your Teen Who Is Thinking About College
The Truth About Student Loan Debt
Help Your Teen Set Up His or Her First Apartment
We would love to stay in touch!
Be sure to see all of the Next Phase Parenting Resources on our Resources Page and subscribe to our Next Phase Parenting newsletter below for a weekly dose of love from us about surviving and thriving in your almost or already empty nest. Visit our Facebook page, and follow us on Pinterest and Instagram where we share lots of helpful info for parents with teens, young adults, our aging parents, and other issues that we experience in the sandwich generation! Thank you so much!❤️
