Summer is a great time for kids to try new things and for families to connect. There are countless activities you can try out, from sampling new foods to learning a skill like fishing or knitting. Whatever your kids are interested in, summer is a great time to relax in a low-stress environment.
Don’t let summer slip away without doing any of these quintessential activities. Step away from the smartphones and video games so you can focus on these fun experiences.
1. Reconnect with nature.
It’s easy to get caught up in work and school during the rest of the year, especially during the winter when it’s too cold to go out. However, summer is a great time for getting outside and relearning why you love the outdoors so much.
Start by hiking on a small scale: visit your nearby park and see if you can spot any animals or insects. You can use your smartphone to identify them and learn what makes them unique. Then, branch out to state and national parks for more advanced hiking and breathtaking views.
If you live in an area with a rainy summer, invest in a Stroller Buzz Universal Rain Cover & Weather Shield so you don’t have to worry about getting caught in a stray shower.
2. Get creative with arts and crafts.
Without the stress of school, your kids can get creative! This might mean going to an art camp or spending the night with friends painting a masterpiece. Look for ways for your kids to express themselves creatively and see where their imaginations take them.
If you want to facilitate opportunities to be creative, check out Paint Loose, which offers DIY kits and craft supplies so you can make your own art. Your kids can even decorate their rooms with the art they created!
3. Head to the water.
One of the best parts about summer is splashing in cool bodies of water, whether this means heading to the beach or stopping at the neighborhood swimming pool. Grab the sunscreen and floaties and head out to cool off in the nearest body of water. If you are looking to explore new areas, seek out a beautiful lake or float down a river for a change of scenery. These trips will make your kids more confident in the water while giving them a fun afternoon out.
4. Learn at the community center.
With a little research, learning can be fun and affordable. Many recreation centers and city parks departments offer summer camps or daily activities for kids. Younger kids can attend a storytime event at the local library while older kids can join a youth robotics club. These activities can help kids explore their passions and find out what they like doing.
When looking for activities, try to sign up for multiple different clubs or groups. While your child might want to take a dance class, they might decide they really enjoy playing soccer more. You don’t want to overwhelm your child, but you do want to expose them to new ideas.
5. Enjoy a night under the stars.
Summer means forgetting about your bedtime and staying up late. Let your kids spend a few nights this summer enjoying the night sky, either through camping in a nearby park or simply by watching the moon rise and identifying different constellations. Fireworks offer another great reason to look at the sky at night, so be sure to check out any 4th of July or Labor Day events in your area.
The summer always flies by fast, and before you know it your kids will be back in school and worrying about tests and homework. Make sure they enjoy their break and relax with fun activities.