When
children have little to do during summer break, it can often mean too much time
spent in front of the TV and hours spent using handheld tablets or video games.
Although it can be tempting to leave kids indoors to allow them to relax, it's
important to plan a few activities for plenty of physical activity and mental
stimulation. Instead of breaking the bank on expensive activities, there are
several excursions that are affordable and easy on your wallet.
1. Run Through the Sprinklers
You don't need a swimming pool to cool off from the rising temperatures. Turn on the sprinklers and make for a day in the water by having fun in the backyard. Allow kids to run back and forth through the sprinklers and use the hose to drench each person. Kids can also enjoy using squirt guns and water balloons while remaining active outdoors.
2. Go on a Picnic
Take your lunch outside by visiting a local park for a picnic. Pack sandwiches, cheese, crackers, juice boxes, fruit, and cookies. Pack a blanket and some sunscreen to stay comfortable in the heat. Try having the picnic close to an outdoor playground where kids can play after they finish their meal.
3. Go to a Local Drive-In Theater
Instead of visiting the local movie theaters, view a movie in a unique way by visiting a local drive-in where you can see a film from your car or while watching it on patio chairs. Kids will get a thrill out of the big screen and most drive-in theaters offer family-friendly films throughout the week. Pack some snacks or visit the concession stand for a great way to enjoy popcorn or candy during the film.
4. Try Geocaching
Go on a treasure hunt in your local community with geocaching, which requires a certain number of clues that will lead you along a trail. It makes for a fun way to explore the great outdoors while learning about the city that you live in. Once finding the geocache at the end of the hunt, it will make for a rewarding experience that will enhance the child's personal confidence. You can always take it to the next level and make it a kids dress up treasure hunt!
1. Run Through the Sprinklers
You don't need a swimming pool to cool off from the rising temperatures. Turn on the sprinklers and make for a day in the water by having fun in the backyard. Allow kids to run back and forth through the sprinklers and use the hose to drench each person. Kids can also enjoy using squirt guns and water balloons while remaining active outdoors.
2. Go on a Picnic
Take your lunch outside by visiting a local park for a picnic. Pack sandwiches, cheese, crackers, juice boxes, fruit, and cookies. Pack a blanket and some sunscreen to stay comfortable in the heat. Try having the picnic close to an outdoor playground where kids can play after they finish their meal.
3. Go to a Local Drive-In Theater
Instead of visiting the local movie theaters, view a movie in a unique way by visiting a local drive-in where you can see a film from your car or while watching it on patio chairs. Kids will get a thrill out of the big screen and most drive-in theaters offer family-friendly films throughout the week. Pack some snacks or visit the concession stand for a great way to enjoy popcorn or candy during the film.
4. Try Geocaching
Go on a treasure hunt in your local community with geocaching, which requires a certain number of clues that will lead you along a trail. It makes for a fun way to explore the great outdoors while learning about the city that you live in. Once finding the geocache at the end of the hunt, it will make for a rewarding experience that will enhance the child's personal confidence. You can always take it to the next level and make it a kids dress up treasure hunt!
5. Visit the Library
The library offers a wide variety of programs during the summer, between seasonal reading programs to story time that is available right on-site. Make it a habit to visit the library once a week to check out free books, rent books on tape, and even surf the Internet for a great way to have an educational experience during summer break. It will allow kids to stay interested in their favorite topics, as well as prepare for the coming school year.
6. Make Jewelry
Visit a local jewelry or craft store and purchase beads, wire, and pliers for tools that are needed to make different accessories. Girls can enjoy learning the craft of jewelry making for necklaces, bracelets, and earrings that they can use in their wardrobe during the summer. Several local craft stores also offer free classes throughout the week, making for an easy and affordable way to learn the skill from professionals.
7. Go Bowling
Stay cool with a relaxing and fun sport that has been a traditional pastime for many decades. AMF bowling alleys offer kids free three games each week all summer long, making for an affordable way to enjoy a new hobby and learn how to hit a few pins. Take a few friends and make a day out of visiting the bowling alley where there will be plenty of food, music, and fun times.
8. Make a Lemonade Stand
Teach kids the value of a dollar by hosting a lemonade stand right in the neighborhood. Kids can learn how to make their own lemonade, as well as how to market the product with flyers and advertisements in the local community. Once spending the day serving the beverage to dozens of people, it will give kids a sense of pride and allow them to use the money for something fun.
9. Camp in the Backyard
Enjoy a staycation during summer break by having kids camp right in their own backyard. Children can learn how to pitch a tent, make s'mores, and tell ghost stories during the night. Use a telescope to learn about the stars while camping at home, which can make for an educational experience that allows kids to gain a greater appreciation for stargazing.
10. Visit the Zoo or Museum
Many different museums and zoos offer free admission on certain days of the week or at specific times of the day during the summer. It will offer a chance to have a firsthand look at monkeys, stingrays, and elephants while learning about their natural habitat.
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