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Community Corner

Relish the Last Days of Summer

With the clock ticking down to the school bells, it's time to make those last memories of summer.

Monday marks the first of August, which to some means we've endured roughly 41 calendar days of summer. To the younger ones, it means the countdown to the first day of school is nearing single digits.

With Florissant's two major public school districts resuming classes in the early half of August-- School District begins Aug. 11, while  School District begins Aug. 15--most kids only have between eight and 10 weekdays left of summer.

As the mom of a boy entering kindergarden, I feel pressured that he make the most of his last few days of freedom.

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Here are a few things I am hoping to do with him in the next few days:

  • Get in one last swim. The pools are winding down their season and will begin a reduced schedule as schools resume. Pool opens everyday at 12:30, while Aquatic Center opens at 11:30 a.m. After Aug. 8, I would suggest calling to see if they are open before heading out.
  • Go bowling. offers two free games per kid each day by signing up on their website. You'll receive the coupons via email soon after registering (shoe rental not included). offers a free game for returning the coloring page on their site.
  • Head to the library. It might be too late to join the summer reading club, but it's not too late to get back in "school mode" by checking out a new book from the library. I was really impressed with the selection of "character" themed books at the St. Louis County Library-. My son chose the Star Wars books.
  • Have a pajama day. Make pancakes and stay in your pajamas until at least 1 p.m. There will be plenty of days of rushing to get dressed and out the door. Plan a day just to stay home and relax. If you have any toys that have been put away or you think they've outgrown them, I've been amazed at how bringing something out of the closet has cured the summertime boredom.

My biggest goal for the next few weeks is to have the TV turned off and spend as much time as I can with my kids before Aug. 15.

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We might even let daddy stay home with the little one and do a "school shopping day" just to get one more day together.

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