Don't go mad, go out and play!

This month's About Parenting Blog Carnival takes on mid-summer madness—you know, the I'm-hot-I'm-bored-I'm-whining-I'm-driving-my-mother/sister/brother/dog-crazy blues.

The suffering in my house isn't too bad yet, because it's only been three weeks since the last day of school, and we were on vacation for one of those. Plus my kids are enrolled in day camp three days a week. Still, it's scary how quickly tempers can flare on those four days a week when we are all home together.

You won't be surprised that I recommend exercise as a cure for mid-summer madness! We parents need to take good care of ourselves in order to care for our kids, and that means fitting in some fitness. You can do it with kids in tow, wake up early and start your day with a workout, or swap kid care with your spouse, a friend, or a grandparent to gain exercise time. (Check out this Fit Family post about a moms-and-kids exercise playgroup.)

Kids need lots of active time, too. It's a time-filler, a stress-buster, a sleep-inducer, a teamwork-teacher, and so much more, so get them out and active. To get you started, I have ideas for inside, outside, and kids in groups. And don't forget these easy basics for days when you are too fried for anything else.

What active games, sports, and hobbies are your kids into this summer? I'd love to know!