What would you do (assuming your children go to school and are not home-schooled) if your school switched to a four day a week schedule? Last summer’s gas prices caused more schools than ever to switch to a four day schedule, and especially in rural areas, the four day school week has caught on as an overall ‘good idea’.

From a parents’ perspective, though, it can be problematic, and a great opportunity. If I knew I’d have my children home an additional day each week, I think I’d try and plan more regional trips to historic places such as Mount Vernon or Colonial Williamsburg, and do more ‘day’ trips as a family. Currently, weekends are filled with ‘catching up’ and with kids’ sports activities. Certainly, an extra day at home would be an educational opportunity. What would you do with this time?