Dear First name / Reader
School’s officially out for summer—and this year, we’re trying something totally new.
For the first time since my son was three, we decided to skip summer camps. He’s seven now (going into second grade!) and after years of busy camp schedules, he asked if he could just stay home this summer.
So we made a deal:
No TV from 9am to 2pm.
Some reading, some math, and a bit of writing every day.
After that? The rest of the day is his. (We only allow video games 2 times per week when we play with him).
And you know what? It’s actually working.
Surprisingly well, in fact.
Tristan's learning multiplication (even though it’s not officially in his grade yet), and he decided he wants to write a book!
So now, part of our daily routine includes him writing 8 sentences a day for 30 days. I came up with a list of prompts to guide him (questions that he should answer about the characters and the plot). Tristan's story is a fantasy adventure about four kids who are forced to fight monsters in an arena, and he is so into it. He’s plotting battles, building worlds, and asking me serious questions like, “Should one of the kids turn evil?” (Answer: maybe. We’ll see.)
Meanwhile, I’m working on my own projects: a brand new series I’ll be sharing with you soon, and a secret project that I’ve been keeping quiet... but I promise to reveal more about that very soon.
Summer has always been a bit of a juggling act for writers who are also parents, but this year, the rhythm feels a little calmer. A little more creative. We also do plenty of swimming, of course! 😉
Tell me what you're up to? Any special plans?
Wishing you a summer filled with creativity, connection, and a little magic.
Until next time,
Kate 💙
