Ah, summer–warm temps, fireworks, BBQs. It’s that wonderful time of year to spend more time outside, start your garden, and enjoy all that this season brings. Some of your kids are out of school and you may be internally freaking out about what you’re going to do with them being home all day, or you may be wondering how you will spend your summer to make it a memorable and fun one. Let’s be honest, it is very easy to just switch on the television, and that’s totally okay, but whether it’s inside or outside, there’s more fun to be had this summer doing activities with the whole family! So I’ve compiled a list of what you can do to make it a summer to remember!
1. Make Your Own Popsicles/Lemonade
This is something I loved doing when I was a kid! I either made my popsicles with juice or made my own yogurt smoothie, and it truly was delicious and very refreshing. If your kids are interested or old enough, they can set up a lemonade stand in your neighborhood. People will definitely stop to show support for your kids’ little stand because who can say no to their cute faces and a yummy homemade drink?
2. Create Art with Chalk
Kids love this one because it allows them to show their creativity. Plus, while it’s a no-no to draw on the floors inside (right, mom and dad?), they can write basically everywhere on the ground outside. It doesn’t stop there–you can even create your own chalk paint (or buy inexpensive paint), which truly helps create beautiful images!
3. Fairy Garden/Painting Rocks
Kids have such a big imaginations, and it would be a blast for them to create a little home for their fairy friends. You can make a fairy garden out of anything–a Kleenex box, toilet paper rolls, popsicle sticks, or empty bottles. And your kids can even paint rocks to set around your fairy garden home, adding to the outside beauty!
4. Sensory Bins
Sensory bins are perfect for toddlers and preschoolers, and can be super easy to make. Your little one will love exploring the textures and shapes in their sensory bin, and if you add some water, it’s even better for a cool summertime activity. Simply find a bucket or bin and take it outside, add some water and some sensory items (water beads, buttons, small plastic toys or watering can). This will create long lasting attention and entertainment for your little ones! I definitely have a sensory bin of water beads mixed with measuring cups planned for my two little ones. For more sensory bin ideas, click here.
5. Explore a New Park, Splash Pad, or Go on a Hike
One summer we checked out all the parks and splash pads in our city, and it was so much fun finding each one and making a list of our favorites. The same goes for hikes–whether you have mountains, beaches, or countryside, you are surrounded by beauty, you just have to find it. Luckily, small walks or hikes can be easy to find with just browsing the internet. Kids will enjoy the exercise and seeing nature.
6. Scavenger Hunt
This is a great way to get outdoors and a fun way to get the whole family involved. Choose a park, or even do this in your neighborhood, and make a list of ten items to look out for such as a bird, white car, a dog, or a snail. It may even become a friendly contest between you all and create a fun evening for you all.
7. Tie Dye
Yes, this may be the most common one that is done in the summer, but it can be a blast. There are different designs you can do, and different methods you can do as well. It also doesn’t just stop at t-shirts! You can also tie dye socks, a pillow case, a bag, or even a blanket, the ideas are endless on this one!
8. Make Ice Cream in a Bag
This one is a definite must! With just a few ingredients and tools, your kids and yourself with feel pretty accomplished that you just made homemade ice cream.
All you will need is:
- 1 cup of half and half
- 2 tbsp of granulated sugar
- 1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 3 cups of ice
- 1/3 cup of kosher salt
In a small bag add in you half and half, vanilla, and sugar. Make sure no air is trapped in the bag. Next, in a bigger bag add your ice and salt. Once done, put your smaller bag (still sealed) in your bigger bag. Shake vigorously for 6-10 minutes or until you’ve reached ice cream texture. That’s it!
9. Make a Kite
You can make a kite with just about anything–all you need to really have is a lightweight paper or lightweight fabric, string, drinking straws, and tape. There are several DIY tutorials out there that the fun is bound to happen! Your kids will love making this and seeing their kite in action!
10. Egg Smashing Art
This is one I’m definitely trying with my kids! All you have to do is drain the egg using a push pin. Remove a small piece of the shell and fill the egg with paint. Have a piece of cardboard, canvas, or paper lying against something outside and let your little ones smash the eggs against it. Get ready for some messy fun that will not only make for some laughable memories but also a keepsake that, once dried, can be displayed in your child’s room to always admire.
5 Bonus ideas!
- Set up a tent in the backyard and have a sleepover or a movie night.
- Plant a mini garden. Let your kids choose what to plant and play an active role in keeping the plants watered.
- Play water balloon baseball.
- Make a bird feeder.
- Make a simple paper plate memory game.
Now you’re all set to make your kids’ summer a blast. Kids don’t need you to spend money to have fun. So many activities can be done with items around the house. There are hundreds of ideas you can do–don’t be afraid to make them up as you go! Your kids’ summer will be fun no matter what, and all of you will love the memories that come with playing and making these activities! Don’t forget to share what ideas you have and have a great summer!
For even more ideas, check out these websites:
