Summer seems to always start off fun but as the days go on, things can get monotonous and downright boring for some kids. While some boredom can actually be good for kids, it’s good to have some planned activities that the family can do together. To prevent this, one thing you can do at the start of the summer is create a summer bucket list with your kids. Write down 15-20 cheap and fun things that you and your kids agree on. Attempt to tackle one of the items each week. Items can be simple like feeding the ducks, making s’mores or watching the sunset. This gives your family something fun to do together each week and you will be surprised by how much your kids look forward to it.
Here are a few other things you can try if you run out of summer activity ideas:
Goodwill gathering. Give your kids the task of selecting clothes, toys and books that they want to donate to charity. It’s a great way to keep kids busy while organizing & helping those in need. Or for those of you who are in need of some cash, take the items to the local consignment shop.
New park visit. Take a trip to a park you haven’t visited before. Kids will love the different playground and change in scenery.
Picnic lunch or dinner. Take your meal outdoors. Find a scenic spot and eat outdoors for a change of pace.
Neighborhood scavenger hunt. Make a list of 10 common items and have your kids hunt in the neighborhood or backyard if you have little ones.
Read “out”. Have the kids choose 3-4 books each. Find a nice spot outside and bring a blanket and some snacks for a fun family reading time.
Local site seeing. Most people don’t take advantage of the sites that are right outside their back door. Visit a museum, historical site or zoo that is nearby.
Family game time. Carve out 10 minutes a day for family game time. Kids can take turns picking a different game each day. Teens even enjoy playing games that they once loved as a younger child It also is a great way to give your children your undivided attention they crave so much.
Free bowling and skating. Visit sites that offer free bowling and free skating to see if your local facilities participate. For more information, visit kidsbowlfree.com and or kidsskatefree.com.
Reading programs. Are your kids having a summer reading slump? To motivate them, kids in grades 1-6 can earn a free book through Barnes and Nobles summer Reading program. Click here for your B & N Summer Reading Journal.
Sunset watching. Pack some snacks and head out to an open space 20 minutes before sunset. Get a good photo with your family and enjoy the summer sunset. If you are morning people, you could also do a sunrise watching instead.
Enjoy your summer! It goes by fast!
