Gantry Kids & Teens

The Fun and Effective Circuit Training Workouts Your Kids Will Love

Gantry Kids • Sep 15, 2023

Circuit training builds fitness fast - see how this quick and varied workout helps your kids get strong and have fun

Circuit training is a form of exercise that involves completing a series of stations with different exercises and minimal rest in between. This type of high-intensity interval workout is ideal for kids and teens because it builds cardiovascular fitness and muscular strength while keeping things fun and engaging.


In circuit training, kids move through a “circuit” of 6-10 strength and cardio exercises that target all the major muscle groups. They perform each exercise for a short period of time, usually 30 seconds to a minute, then quickly move on to the next station with little to no rest. A few rounds of concentrated exercise followed by short rest periods helps improve muscular endurance, strength, cardiovascular fitness, and overall stamina.


Circuit training provides a wide variety of benefits beyond building a strong, lean physique. It can boost energy levels, reduce stress, increase self-confidence, and teach healthy habits. When varied and progressive, circuit training workouts never get boring or repetitive. Kids will have a blast getting fit when you incorporate friendly competition, teamwork, and games. With motivation and guidance from parents and coaches, circuit training gives young athletes a comprehensive, challenging workout that keeps them engaged from start to finish.


This article will explore the many benefits of circuit training for developing bodies, provide tips on designing safe and effective circuits tailored for kids, and offer motivation to help your children stick with this transformative workout. Read on to learn how to create fitness enthusiasts for life.

Benefits of Circuit Training for Kids and Teens 

There are many excellent reasons you should consider circuit training for your active kids and teens:


Improves Cardiovascular Endurance and Stamina

The combination of aerobic and resistance training in circuit workouts provides the perfect stimulus for increasing cardiovascular fitness. As kids move through stations with short rest periods, their heart and lungs have to work hard to circulate oxygenated blood throughout the body. Over time, this improves stamina and endurance so they can run faster, play harder, and participate in sports at a higher intensity without getting winded.


Builds Muscular Strength and Endurance

Circuit training utilizes bodyweight exercises, resistance bands, medicine balls and other tools to progressively overload the muscles. When performed with proper form, exercises like pushups, squats, lunges, and planks will help develop and tone all the major muscle groups in the arms, shoulders, chest, back, core, hips and legs. Kids will get stronger, improving athletic performance in any sport.


Strengthens Heart and Lungs

The heart is the most important muscle, pumping life-giving oxygen to working muscles during exercise. Circuit training keeps the heart rate elevated, resulting in improved cardiac output. Lung capacity also increases over time, allowing for better oxygen exchange. Kids will reap the benefits through lifelong heart and lung health.


Burns Calories and Maintains Healthy Weight

Childhood obesity is a growing concern, affecting 1 in 6 children in the United States according to the CDC. Circuit training is an ideal workout for kids to get moving, build lean muscle, and burn calories they would otherwise store as fat if sedentary. The high-intensity intervals ramp up the metabolic rate so kids continue to burn more calories after their workout as the body recovers.


Enhances Balance, Coordination and Agility

Exercises like jump roping, cone drills and agility ladders challenge and improve balance and coordination. Quick changes in direction and explosive movements will make kids more agile. They’ll have better control over their body and movements, improving performance in dynamic sports like football, basketball and soccer.


Increases Flexibility and Range of Motion

Dynamic stretches and exercises with a full range of motion, such as squats, lunges, and shoulder presses, can improve flexibility over time. This allows for easier movement through a wider range of motions, a key factor in injury prevention. Don’t forget to stretch at the end too!


Provides an Energy Boost

Circuit training, when done consistently, increases energy levels so kids feel good all day long. A good workout will leave them invigorated, not exhausted. The mood-enhancing benefits of exercise will also boost their focus when it’s time to hit the books.


Reduces Stress and Improves Mood

Physical activity naturally increases feel-good endorphins in the brain. The mental health benefits are just as important as the physical ones! Kids will feel less stressed, anxious and depressed. You can’t put a price on developing lifelong healthy coping skills.


Helps Build Strong Bones and Muscles

The weight bearing and resistive exercises in circuit training stimulate muscle and bone growth. Kids can maximize bone density early in life and may reduce their risk of developing osteoporosis later on. Building lean muscle mass also boosts metabolism and athletic ability.


Reduces Risk of Obesity and Chronic Diseases

Regular exercise has been proven to reduce the risk of over 25 chronic conditions including type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and stroke according to the CDC. Getting kids active early promotes lifelong healthy habits that stave off disease. What better gift to give your child?


Boosts Confidence and Self-Esteem

Achieving fitness goals through dedication to circuit training gives kids a sense of accomplishment that builds their confidence. Pushing past mental and physical challenges helps develop grit and resilience. Kids will be proud of their stronger, fitter selves!

Designing a Circuit Training Workout for Kids

When designing an effective circuit training workout for kids, there are some key factors to consider:


Determine the Length of the Workout

A good rule of thumb is to start beginners with a 20-30 minute workout and have them work up to 45-60 minutes as their stamina improves. This includes warm-up, circuits, rest and cool down. Advanced kids training for specific sports goals may eventually progress to longer 70-90 minute circuit workouts, but shorter intense sessions are best for most young athletes starting out.


Choose Exercises Wisely

Kids have unique needs - workouts should focus on building a balanced foundation of strength, flexibility, coordination and stamina. Good circuit training selections include:

  • Bodyweight moves like squats, lunges, planks which build core and lower body strength. Focus on proper form.
  • Pushups, rows, shoulder presses for upper body and back strength. Modify elevation as needed.
  • Cardio exercises like high knees, jumping jacks, and jogging or jumping in place to spike heart rate.
  • Agility drills that enhance speed, balance and coordination like ladder drills and cone hops.
  • Core moves like sit ups, bicycles, V-ups, leg lifts which strengthen the abdominals.
  • Yoga poses to improve balance and flexibility between circuits. Child’s pose, in particular, allows resting while stretching the back, hips and hamstrings.


Pay Attention to Pacing

Allow 15-90 seconds of rest between circuits depending on intensity level. Take longer rest periods if beginners are struggling. Advanced kids can progress to 20-40 second rest periods between stations.


Adapt and Modify Exercises

Cater to individual strength and fitness levels by providing modifications and alternatives:

  • Beginner pushups can be done at an incline from a wall or bench. Knee pushups are another good modification.
  • Forward lunges can be stationary or performed with no weights before adding distance and dumbbells.
  • Limit hopping, jumping and plyometrics if kids have joint issues. Provide low impact alternatives.


Safety First!

Always teach and demonstrate proper form for every exercise. Remind kids to move in control, never flailing about and risking pulled muscles or collisions. Check for signs of overexertion and make kids take breaks as needed – better safe than sorry!


Keep It Engaging

Sustaining interest is key to circuit training success. Use music, games, friendly competition and variety to prevent boredom. Keep things lighthearted - after all, exercise should be fun too! Reward effort and improvement, not just performance.


Sample Beginner Circuit:

Warm-up: Walking lunges across room, arm circles 10x each direction 

Circuit: Wall pushups x10 Bodyweight squats x15 Jumping jacks x25 Plank hold 30 seconds Jump rope 30 seconds Rest 30 seconds, repeat 2x Cool down: Quad stretch, shoulder rolls, calf stretches


This balanced beginner circuit helps ease kids into circuit training with 1 upper body push, 1 lower body move, cardio and core training. Gradually increase reps and duration as fitness improves. Maintain focus on proper form above all else.

Safety Tips for Circuit Training with Kids

While the benefits of circuit training for kids are immense, safety should always be the number one priority. Children are not simply miniature adults - their growing bodies require careful exercise programming under trained supervision. Follow these tips to keep your kids injury free:

Start With Medical Clearance

Kids with pre-existing conditions like asthma, heart conditions, joint issues or other chronic diseases should get physician approval before starting an intense training program. Disclose any pertinent medical history.


Teach Proper Exercise Form

Improper form is one of the biggest culprits in exercise injury. All exercises should be demonstrated and clearly explained before kids attempt them. Reinforce proper technique frequently. Common mistakes like arching the back in pushups or letting knees cave in during squats put undue stress on joints and muscles.


Ensure Adequate Rest Between Stations

Don’t let eagerness and enthusiasm override common sense. Make kids take breaks as needed between circuits. Watch for signs of fatigue like heavy breathing, pallor, slowing pace. Err on the conservative side - pushing through pain often results in overuse injuries or exhaustion.


Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate

Dehydration depletes energy levels and mental focus. Make sure kids drink plenty of water before, during and after circuit training. Stop periodically for water breaks. Calorie-free electrolyte drinks are also beneficial for rehydration after heavy sweating.


Pay Attention to Footwear

Proper athletic shoes with good support and traction lower injury risk from slips and falls. Make sure kids’ shoes fit well and are not too worn. Bare feet or socks increase likelihood of cuts and sprains.


Listen to Pain Signals

Teach kids not to ignore or “work through” significant pain. Stop activity immediately if they experience sharp or intense pain, limping, loss of strength or any other indication of injury. Refer to a physical therapist or sports medicine doctor for proper diagnosis and rehabilitation.


Choose Surfaces Wisely

Cushioned rubber flooring in gyms absorbs impact best, reducing repetitive stress injuries. Avoid hard surfaces like bare concrete. Grass and softer ground are better for agility drills and plyometrics.


Clear Clutter

Set up work areas with adequate space between stations so kids don’t run into each other or trip over obstacles. Remove unused equipment and other hazards.


Use Spotters When Needed

Spotters provide assistance, support and safety reminders for advanced exercises like heavy strength training and plyometrics. Always have spotters present when kids are performing unfamiliar or risky moves. Don't let them attempt moves beyond their capability unsupervised.



Cool Down and Stretch

Active stretching after circuits brings muscles back to resting length and aids recovery. Kids should gently stretch all major muscle groups held for 20-30 seconds each. Remember, cold muscles are more prone to strains and tears.


Apply First Aid for Minor Injuries

Keep a well-stocked first aid kit on hand and know how to treat superficial injuries like scraped knees, cuts, bruises or minor sprains with basic supplies. Review emergency action plans for more serious trauma. Prevention is best, but preparation counts when dealing with active kids!


While no workout is 100% injury-proof, following reasonable safety precautions goes a long way in protecting young athletes. Teach kids their physical limits, and they will build confidence to exercise safely for life.

Overcoming Common Circuit Training Challenges

Circuit training is intense by nature, so motivation and commitment are essential. Here are some common obstacles kids face, and how to overcome them:


Problem: Lack of Motivation 

Solution: Effective praise and small measurable goals

Kids want to succeed, but may become discouraged if progress feels out of reach. Break down big goals into smaller milestones they can achieve quickly like “Do 2 real pushups by next week.” Recognize effort and consistency, not just output. Use rewards like stickers on a calendar to track progress.


Problem: Workouts get boring 

Solution: Creative exercise variations

Prevent boredom and burnout by frequently changing up the circuit stations. Periodically swap one exercise for a new one that works for the same muscle group. Design themed circuits around sports, animals, or other interests to spark the imagination. Play music and themes to make it feel fresh.


Problem: Discomfort from muscle soreness 

Solution: Proper recovery habits

Some muscle soreness is normal after starting a new training program as the body adjusts. Make sure kids get plenty of sleep, nutrition, hydration and rest days for adequate recovery. Lightly stretch sore muscles. Scale back intensity if pain is severe or lingering.


Problem: Kids feel self-conscious
Solution
: Supportive, positive environment

Judgement about ability level or body image can make kids dread exercise. Stress that everyone has different fitness journeys. Celebrate all effort, not just athletically gifted kids. Foster a “try your best” attitude over pure competition. Work out together to model positive attitudes.


Problem: Weather derails outdoor training 

Solution: Flexible training spaces

Have an indoor backup space for weather-sensitive stations like outdoor running. Get creative sourcing space - garages, decks, basements and rec rooms can work in a pinch. Virtual workouts are another great option to bridge gaps.


Problem: Children lose interest over time 

Solution: Accountability and variety

Kids need structure, so set a consistent workout schedule. Gently insist they stick to it barring illness, but be flexible on timing if possible. Shake things up periodically with new circuits, stations, and challenges so boredom doesn't sap motivation. If interest continues to wane over time, take a break and try again in a few weeks.


While circuit training presents some unique challenges, creative solutions tailored to each child’s needs can overcome most barriers. With patience and support from parents and coaches, kids will thrive on this fitness journey!

Conclusion

Regular circuit training provides a fun, efficient and comprehensive workout that builds muscular and cardiovascular endurance, strength, flexibility, and coordination in kids and teens. An investment in consistent training pays dividends through improved athletic performance, healthier body composition, enhanced self-confidence and reduced risk of childhood obesity and disease.


Support your kids in this endeavor by helping them design varied, progressive circuits that keep workouts engaging over time. Adapt activities appropriately as their fitness improves, but always emphasize proper form and technique above all else. With reasonable precautions and responsive supervision, circuit training can be a safe, rewarding experience for young athletes.


The journey to physical fitness is a marathon, not a sprint. Stick with circuit training through motivation highs and lows. Celebrate small achievements along the way. Most importantly, make it fun! Playing upbeat music, incorporating friendly competition, and making activities game-like goes a long way toward keeping kids engaged.


Consistency and commitment to circuit training results in developing increased muscular and cardiovascular endurance, speed, agility, flexibility, balance, and strength to empower kids in every area of life. Contact Gantry Kids today to learn more about our specialized circuit training programs tailored to your child’s unique needs and abilities. Invest in your child’s health, fitness, and confidence now to set them up for a bright future.

By Michele Kelber 25 Oct, 2024
Risky Play - Parent & Caregiver Buy In I know, Risky Play sounds SCARY! It may raise some eyebrows, but it's essential for a child's growth and development. Risky Play is generally play that is outside the achieved skill set of a child attempting to be performed in a fun and happy context. Helen Dodd and Kathryn Lester published the article, “Adventurous Play as a Mechanism for Reducing Risk for Childhood Anxiety: A Conceptual Model” in 2021. The paper states, “when children play in an adventurous way, climbing trees, riding their bikes fast downhill and jumping from rocks, they experience feelings of fear and excitement, thrill and adrenaline.” One of the difference between risky play and plane hazards in life is that risky play is done in a context of happiness and desire. This pushes each child to get used to feeling uncomfortable and manage their emotions around it. The authors noted that half of all anxiety disorders start before age 11, "so the earlier kids deal with "ambiguity" - the discomfort of not knowing how something will turn out, which they went on to say that which is at the heart of risk – the more chance of nipping anxiety in the bud." (from Let Grow: letgrow.org/risky-play-anxiety/) I was recently a guest on a panel discussing Adventure Playgrounds at the Association of Science & Technology Centers 2024 Conference. Did you know that tons of museums are building adventure playgrounds? Adventure Playgrounds range from "natural playgrounds" to "junk playgrounds". Governors Island is home to play:ground NYC, The Yard. The theme that runs through each is unrestricted play, and the absence of adult made play structures. Often adventure playgrounds are "no adults allowed" other than playworkers, trained to oversee the area. Adventure Playgrounds can have anything from hammers and nails to build with, trees to climb, treehouses to imagine from, ropes to swing on, and access to water. Many utilize found objects to spark creativity and imagination. Adventure playgrounds are facilitators of Risky Play! My portion of the presentation and panel addressed "Educating Grown-ups: Guiding Parents and Caretakers into Risky Play". I felt it was an important topic because allowing risky play the few times you visit an adventure playground isn't enough integration in a child's life. The goal is to support parents and caregivers to introduce, encourage and provide opportunities for risky play. My job as the founder of Gantry Kids is to provide such an environment AND to guide parents through what may be a scary time for them as they incorporate risky play at home. The Benefits The benefits of risky play are countless. In the forefront is learning to be in uncomfortable situations and get to the other side of them. It teaches follow through, coping with stressors, and understanding personal limitations. It also can improve motor skills and cognitive understanding, as well as improve social interaction skills. Kids that are risk adverse don't learn how to manage everyday situations or worse, it causes children to seek out hazardous actions and environments as a form of thrill seeking. Mental Health professionals are in agreement that the lack of risky play can lead to a lack of resilience and the onset of mental health issues like anxiety at a very young age. This almost always requires professional intervention. The Fears As adults we have our own set of fears around allowing children to participate in certain activities. One of the biggest fears around risky play is injury to the child and ability concerns - can the child even do it? Other fears that drive hesitation for adults is our own anxiety and worry. We take it on as if we are experiencing the action and just can't manage our own anxiety as we enter the rabbit hole of worry. By the way no one is more afraid on a skateboard than a newbie adult. Kids, meh, not so much. Lastly, adults, organizations, and municipalities are fearful of litigation. What if a child gets hurt and we get sued? I love fear. It's just our bodies way of telling us we are alive. Fears have a tendency to take over the area of our brains where rational thinking occurs. So stay vigilant and don't allow it. Literally say to yourself, Okay fear, I see and here you. Thanks for the feedback, but I'm going to do it anyway. If we actually looked at the statistical likelihood of something happening versus only considering our concerns we'd be doing way more stuff. Chapter 4: Where We Are as a Society of my book How Not to Ruin Your Kids: A Practical Guide to Raising Happy, Independent, Equipped Children addresses how fear impacts our parenting and in turn our children's agency, self-esteem and autonomy. It also breaks down statistics of one of our deepest fears: kidnapping. I point to the fact that "children abducted by strangers represent .01% of all missing children." Yet, we don't let our kids walk to school, run errands, or play at the playground without an adult for fear of them being taken. Point zero one percent. So you see, fears aren't always rational, supported by evidence or true yet we filter most of our decision making when it comes to our children through those emotions. The REALITY What's your reality? How often are your kids engaging in risky play or enjoying an adventure playground? The reality for most is that kids engage in risky play as a single experience . Whether it's a pop-up event, or an exhibit at a museum or a weekly visit to the cool playground. It's not often enough. Risky play includes everything from climbing, balancing, hanging, jumping, swinging, sliding, running, biking, skating, cutting, poking, whipping, sawing, tying, wrestling, play fighting, rough and tumble play, exploring unknown environments, introducing dangerous elements like elevation change, water, and fire. (Sandsetter, Ellen Beate Hansen and Leif Edward Ottesen Kennair (2011): "Children's Risky Play from an Evolutionary Perspective: The Anti-Phobic Effects of Thrilling Experiences". Evolutionary Psychology. 9:2, 257-284). Is your child engaging in risky play at home? How often do they climb a tree, balance on a curb, saw a piece of wood, play fight, take a short cut through the woods, or build a fire? All of this is risky play. Is risky play available to kids? Do we let them help make dinner and use a knife, are we painting pumpkins or carving them? At our Halloween Kids Night Out! we always have the kids carve pumpkins. Now, they are taught and guided by an adult, but they get to actually do it! Are they swinging on ropes like we do at the gym, or jumping from tall heights, even the couch counts. Biking is even risky play. Remember risky play is adventurous and brings some excitement and thrill to children in a happy environment. They are the barometer, not you. Is their school and after school program a proponent of risky play? Obviously Gantry Kids is! We work really hard to create an organic environment where kids have access to risky play and agency over themselves. We support their growth and encourage their development with each box jump, rope swing, and mile on the bike! Are parents and caregivers being supported? Are you as a parent or caregiver feeling supported in your quest to provide opportunities for risky play? It's hard we know. Hard to trust that your child can do the task, trust that they will stay safe and trust that you are making the right choices. Honestly, that's why a lot of parents send their kids to Gantry Kids. We handle the risky play and the mild heart palpitations. When you feel those, thank your fear for being present and act anyway. What's next? As a way to support parents, besides sending kids to the gym, I created this very basic, but informative info graphic. It breaks down risky play you can incorporate at home and then build on! By incrementally adding risk play to your child's life, you'll see the benefits, but also they are learning a new skill set, which will boost their confidence and independence! Remember, start small. Do things together, your eyes on, your hand off. Then start adding more and more. Don't wait until you are comfortable, acknowledge your fear and act anyway. You can do this!
By Michele Kelber 09 Oct, 2024
Why Free & Risky Play in After School Programs are Crucial for Child Development Parents often prioritize structured activities like homework time or organized sports when considering afterschool care. However, one of the most valuable and sometimes overlooked aspects of a child's development in these programs is free play—and even risky play. These activities provide essential opportunities for children to challenge themselves, develop new skills, and gain confidence, all while having fun. Let's dive into why free and risky play are beneficial, especially in an afterschool setting, and how programs like the ones we run at Gantry Kids & Teens in Long Island City, NY, are embracing these concepts. What Is Free Play and Risky Play? Free play is an unstructured, child-led activity. It’s play that allows children to explore their environment, use their imagination, and engage in physical and creative activities without an adult directing their every move. Whether it's a game of tag, climbing on a jungle gym, or inventing an entirely new game, free play allows kids to learn at their own pace, make decisions, and solve problems. Risky play is a type of free play that involves an element of risk, whether it’s climbing higher than they’ve ever climbed before or trying to balance on a narrow beam. While the word "risky" can sound intimidating, it doesn’t mean putting children in dangerous situations. Instead, it encourages them to test their limits in a somewhat controlled environment, helping them develop resilience, confidence, and problem-solving skills. The Importance of Physical Fitness and Exercise One of the biggest benefits of free and risky play in afterschool care is the opportunity for kids to engage in physical activity. While many afterschool programs focus on academic enrichment, it’s important to remember that physical fitness is just as crucial to a child's well-being. Free play naturally incorporates movement—running, jumping, climbing, and balancing all count as essential forms of exercise. These activities help kids develop strength, coordination, and endurance, which are key for maintaining a healthy body and mind. Afterschool programs that include ample time for free play give kids the chance to burn off energy after a long school day, allowing them to unwind and refresh their bodies and minds. This active form of play also helps combat the growing concern of sedentary lifestyles, especially in a world where children spend increasing amounts of time sitting in classrooms or in front of screens. Social and Emotional Growth Through Play Another critical aspect of free and risky play is the development of social and emotional skills. In an unstructured play environment, children are responsible for setting their own rules and navigating social interactions. They learn how to cooperate, negotiate, and resolve conflicts, which are all important life skills. Free play often leads to group activities where kids have to work together, fostering teamwork and leadership qualities. Risky play, in particular, teaches children to assess their abilities and take calculated risks. For example, when a child decides to climb a tree or cross a balance beam, they learn to gauge the difficulty of the task, weigh the risks, and develop the confidence to try. This type of self-regulation helps build resilience—children learn that it’s okay to fail, and they gain the confidence to try again, which is a lesson that extends far beyond the playground. Kids are taking risks, feeling apprehensive, and nervous in the context of fun. This allows them to manage their emotions and temper anxiety, a real diagnosis for many kids by the time they turn 11. Gantry Kids & Teens: Embracing Play in Long Island City, NY For our Long Island City families, Gantry Kids & Teens has developed a robust afterschool program that embraces the importance of free and risky play. The focus isn’t just on keeping kids busy but on fostering holistic development through creative and physical activities. The program we run at Gantry Kids emphasizes the value of play in building strong bodies and minds, giving children the freedom to explore their abilities in a safe environment.  The team at Gantry understands that children thrive when they are given the chance to lead their own play and push their boundaries. By incorporating elements of risky play, such as climbing, running obstacle courses, or engaging in imaginative games, Gantry Kids & Teens helps kids develop not only physical fitness but also the confidence to face new challenges in life. We also recognize the importance of balancing structured activities with free play. While we offer organized programs to enhance physical and social skills, we also give children the space to engage in self-directed, unstructured activities where they can develop their own games, create friendships, and discover new interests. This balance ensures that kids leave feeling accomplished, energized, and ready for the next day. Play Should Be More Than Just Fun Free and risky play aren’t just fun—they’re foundational elements of a child’s development. In the context of afterschool care and daycare, these activities allow children to gain confidence, build resilience, and strengthen their physical and mental health. Programs that incorporate free play, like what we run at Gantry Kids & Teens, offer kids the chance to develop in a way that structured activities alone cannot provide. When kids are given the opportunity to play freely and take risks, they become more creative, adaptable, and prepared for the world around them. Learn more about our afterschool programs at Gantry in Long Island City, NY .
Train tracks junction
By Michele Kelber 16 Aug, 2024
There are 1000 transitions in a day. Wise words from a Dad of a three year old and a one year old. The truth of the matter is that young children are experiencing most of life for the first time. Everything is awe inspiring. Even if it's the same task, like getting out the door and into the car, they have little recollection of times before, or one little thing makes the experience different for them: the clothes they are wearing, the time of day, a puddle from last nights rain in the driveway, or even where the car is parked. Remember too, that kids are learning analytical thinking and can't truly transfer concepts until they are approaching their teens. You can read more about that in Chapter 3 of my book: "Where Kids Are" How Not to Ruin Your Kids , pp. 25-31. So how do we support them in being able to transition smoothly and easily? The start of school is a HUGE transition for kids. Going from summer fun: late nights and slow mornings, to getting to bed early and up with the sun! In most homes, there is less structure in during the summer months, more physical activity and unstructured time in each day. All those combined create space for kids to self-regulate much easier than during the school year when physical activity and movement in general is extremely limited, and each minute of the day is scheduled out. The new academic year may also be a series of NEW NEW NEW.
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