Summer is here! Although you’ve probably been schooling your kiddos at home, the excitement of summer break is still important. Many families have added evening walks and family game nights to the regular schedule of things; however, summer brings about a whole new challenge. I mean, let’s face it, summer days are just long. What to do?
Are you ready to venture out?
The Dallas Zoo, Sealife, and maybe even a staycation at Jade Waters might be part of your Summer Bucket List, but keeping those kiddos entertained ALL summer long is tricky! While boredom is a great place for the imagination to flourish, we still want to make sure they don’t resort to staring at screens all summer long.
A Summer of Social Distance
Although the World seems to be opening back up a little, public health is still a major concern. Many families will be playing it safe by staying close to home and joining smaller playgroups to allow more distance. I’ve compiled a few ideas I hope you and your kiddos (or grandkids!) will enjoy. Let’s bust that boredom with creativity, thrifty finds, and DIY’s that will blow them away!
Summer at Home
Make a Schedule
Knowing that routine is key, stay one step ahead by creating summer screentime rules. On your schedule, you can build in creative expression time, reading time, and so much more. Hey, you’re even building character by adding in chores!!! Here is a great free printable from The Pragmatic Parent.
STEM
We love this word! SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY, ENGINEERING, AND MATHEMATICS! With the many changes due to social distancing guidelines, we probably won’t see many camps offered this summer. Or you may not want to venture out just yet. Either way, I’ve got you covered. From Target to KiwiCo, you are sure to find the perfect PROJECTS for all AGES! Walmart also has a nice selection of STEM projects that are budget-friendly.
Cardboard Crafts
I’m sure we’ve all used a cardboard box to create an afternoon of fun! If you haven’t, well, you are surely missing out. I actually save most of my large boxes and even snack boxes for creative playtime! Give kids supplies and watch the magic happen. Check out this DIY list of amazing cardboard craft ideas.
Theme Weeks
Planning themes is a great way to keep the summer weeks from melting into each other. For example, Animal Week is all about animals. Watch documentaries, color pictures, create, add new toy animals to the sandbox, and maybe visit the zoo! Have Camping Week, Dinosaurs, Explorers, or Craft & Create Week, just to name a few. Here is a Pinterest post on weekly summer themes to get you started.
Online Resources
There are tons of online learning opportunities out there for all ages. Mom, you got this. Here are 3 recommendations to get you started:
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- Camp Wonderopolis is one of those sites that has it ALL! Don’t get lost!!
- The Explorers Digital Camp is an online camp with printable activities tiered for all ages.
- Camp PBS Kids has got you covered with entertainment and learning!
- Printable resources are also a great way to enjoy learning at home. These resources also can close gaps in learning before the new school year. Here are a few great sites. Primary Learning, Fun Learning for Kids, This Reading Mama, and for the older children Worksheet Fun has you covered.
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Outside Fun
This list is all about good, high-energy fun! Outside family fun is not limited to walks in the park or a bike ride! Hey, there is nothing wrong with taking a walk, but the sun is out, and it is TIME…Break out the water shooters and bubbles. Keep it moving! Here is a list of some of my family’s favorites!
Bubbles!!!
Need I say more? Always keep a stash of bubbles. Did you know that kids literally never grow out of bubbles? Check out the Giant Bubble Wand and the Bubble Ball.
Water Blasters
You can go high tech or Dollar Tree! Water blasters are absolutely fun and there is a ton of creative ways to enjoy a good water fight.
Paddle Toss and Catch Ball Sets
These sets will keep you running and laughing. We ordered the Emoji Catcher Paddle from Amazon, and it has been the most inexpensive, most played-with toy ever!!
Art
Create your own art station outside. This is a great way to enjoy the fresh air with the entire family as you lead your own “Family Painting with a Twist.” There are tons of easy “How to Paint a…” on YouTube! Find one that works for your age group.
DIY
Outside projects are always fun and memorable. Sandboxes, gardens, balcony/ patio makeovers, and even building a treehouse! Speaking of gardens, did you know there are some amazing benefits to growing food with children? Not only are you teaching them about where food comes from, but you are teaching responsibility!!! Check out this article on 12 Brilliant Reasons to Grow Food with Kids.
What activities are you planning this summer?
