Summer is a time when kids are out of school and have a lot of free time on their hands. While this can be a great opportunity for kids to explore their interests and passions, it can also be a challenging time for parents who are trying to keep their kids entertained and engaged. As a parent, you may be wondering how to make the most of the summer months and create unforgettable memories with your whole family.
The good news is that there are plenty of fun things and educational activities you can plan for your entire family this summer. From outdoor adventures to indoor projects, there’s something for everyone. In this article, we’ll provide you with 20 ideas for things to do this summer break with kids, as well as 10 low-cost options that won’t break the bank.
These activities will not only keep your kids entertained, but they will also provide opportunities for your family to bond and create lasting memories. Whether you’re looking for fun, outdoor activities that allow your family to explore the natural world or indoor-free things that promote creativity and learning, there’s something on this list for everyone.
So don’t let the summer months pass you by without taking advantage of all the wonderful opportunities that are available to you and your family. With planning and creativity, you can make this summer one that your kids will never forget.
Planning for Summer:
Before diving into summer activities, taking some time to plan can make a huge difference in the success and enjoyment of your family’s summer experience. One of the first steps in planning is to create a list of activities that your family wants to do. Consider the interests and ages of your children, as well as your budget and schedule. This can help you prioritize which great ideas and activities are most important and feasible.
Once you have a list of potential activities, it’s important to make a plan for how you will accomplish them. Decide on specific dates, locations, and any supplies or equipment you may need. This can help avoid last-minute scrambling and stress, and ensure that your family is fully prepared and equipped for each activity.
Just be flexible and open to changes as well. Summer plans can sometimes be affected by weather or other unforeseen circumstances, so it’s important to have backup plans or alternative activities in mind. In addition, be sure to take breaks and prioritize downtime in your schedule, as summer can also be a time for relaxation and rejuvenation.
Overall, taking the time to plan and prepare can help ensure that your family has a fun, memorable, and stress-free summer experience. By considering your family’s favorite activity, budget, and schedule, and being flexible and open to changes, you can make the most of this special time together.
Top 30 Things to Do This Summer with Kids:
Summer is the perfect time for families to explore new adventures and create lasting memories. There are many activities to choose from, it can be difficult to decide where to begin. Here are our top 30 ideas for fun summer activities with kids:
- Outdoor adventures: Plan outdoor activities like hiking, biking, kayaking, or walking to a new park which can help your kids stay active and explore nature.
- Beach trips: A visit to the beach is a classic summer activity for families. Look for beaches with amenities like lifeguards, restrooms, and snack bars.
- Water parks: Water park or splash park offers a fun way for kids to cool off during the hot summer months. Look for parks with a splash pad or shallow pools for younger children. It wouldn’t hurt if they have a water slide that is safe for little kids too.
- Amusement parks: Roller coasters, carnival games, and cotton candy – amusement parks have it all! Look for parks that offer discounts or specials for families.
- Summer camps: Many communities offer summer programs for kids of all ages. Look for camps that focus on your child’s interests, such as sports, science, or arts and crafts.
- Nature hikes: Take your kids on a nature hike and explore the world around you. Look for parks or trails with guided tours or educational programs.
- Fishing trips: Fishing is a great way to spend time outdoors and bond with your kids. Look for fishing spots with easy access and equipment rentals.
- Picnics: Pack a picnic lunch and head to your local park for relaxing or playing outdoor games.
- Zoo and aquarium visits: Kids love animals, and zoos and aquariums offer a unique way to experience them up close. Look for facilities that offer educational programs or behind-the-scenes tours.
- Festivals and events: Summer is a time for festivals and events, and there are plenty of options for families. Look for events that offer free admission or discounts for kids. Sometimes there is a free concert as well.
- Movie nights: Plan a family movie night in your own backyard or at a local park. Look for free or low-cost movie screenings in your community or movie theaters.
- Museum visits: Museums offer a fun and educational way to spend a summer day especially if it’s an interactive museum. Look for museums with interactive exhibits and special events for kids.
- Science experiments: Plan some fun science experiments with your kids, like making homemade slime or volcano eruptions. Look for online tutorials or experiment kits at local toy stores.
- Gardening: Plant in a garden with your kids and teach them about the importance of taking care of the environment. Look for community gardens or classes that offer gardening tips and tricks.
- Cooking classes: Teach your kids valuable life skills by planning a cooking class or workshop. Look for classes that focus on healthy eating or international cuisine.
- Sports and games: Encourage your kids to stay active by planning outdoor sports and games. Look for parks or community centers that offer equipment rentals or sports leagues.
- Road trips: Hit the open road and explore new places with your family. Look for destinations that offer kid-friendly activities like museums, national parks, theme parks, or just simply enjoy the great outdoors.
- Camping trips: Camping is a great way to disconnect from technology and connect with nature. Look for campgrounds with amenities like showers, restrooms, and playgrounds.
- Art projects: Get creative with your kids by planning art projects or craft sessions. Look for classes or free kids workshops at local libraries, museums, or community centers.
- Stargazing: Spend a night outdoors and teach your kids about the wonders of the night sky. Look for local astronomy clubs or planetariums that offer stargazing events.
- Visits to national parks: National parks offer a unique chance to explore and learn about the natural world. Look for parks with ranger-led programs and educational activities for kids.
- Beach cleanups: Teach your younger kids about the importance of taking care of the environment by participating in a beach cleanup. Look for local organizations that organize beach cleaning.
- Volunteer work: Get involved in your community by doing volunteer work with your kids. Look for local charities or organizations that offer volunteer opportunities for families.
- Fruit picking: Take your kids fruit picking at a local farm or orchard. Look for farms that offer educational tours or have a farm stand with fresh produce and pick the best time to visit.
- Geocaching: Geocaching is a fun and educational activity that involves using GPS coordinates to find hidden treasures. Look for local geocaching groups or download a geocaching app to get started.
- Scavenger hunts: Create a scavenger hunt for your kids and explore your local community. Look for parks or historic sites with guided scavenger hunts or create your own using a map or clues and have an outdoor adventure.
- Building projects: Get your kids involved in building projects like birdhouses, treehouses, or garden beds. Look for online tutorials or DIY kits at local home improvement stores.
- Pool days: Spend a day at the pool and cool off during the hot summer months. Look for community pools or waterparks that offer family discounts or season passes.
- Community service: Get your kids involved in community service by organizing a neighborhood cleanup or volunteering at a local food bank. Look for opportunities to get involved through your school or community center.
- Sports camps: Sports camps offer a fun and educational way for kids to improve their skills and stay active during the summer months. Look for camps that offer a variety of sports and activities for all ages and skill levels.
It’s not the family’s favorite activities that are important but the memories shared while doing these activities. By being open to new experiences and exploring your local community, you can make this summer one that your kids will never forget.
10 Low-Cost Things to Do This Summer with Kids:
Being cost-conscious is always a good idea, especially when planning summer activities with kids. Fortunately, there are plenty of low-cost options that will still provide much fun and entertainment. In fact, some of the best summer activities can be found right in your local community. From backyard picnics and barbecues to visits to farmers’ markets and nature scavenger hunts, there are many ways to enjoy the outdoors and connect with nature without breaking the bank. Additionally, there are often free or low-cost events and festivals in your community that provide opportunities for families to come together and have fun. By being mindful of your budget and exploring local options, you can create a summer filled with fun, without worrying about the cost.
- Have a backyard picnic or barbecue
- Visit a local farmers’ market
- Go on a nature scavenger hunt
- Have a family game night
- Build a fort or treehouse in your backyard
- Create an outdoor obstacle course or treasure hunt
- Visit a nearby state or national park
- Have a family bike ride or walk
- Plan a DIY craft day with recycled materials
- Create a summer bucket list and try to complete it together
Conclusion:
As a mother, I know firsthand how quickly time flies and how important it is to make the most of the precious moments we have with our children. Summer is a special time when families can bond, explore, and create unforgettable memories together. By planning ahead and being open to new experiences, you can make the most of this summer with your kids and create memories that will last a lifetime.
There are endless possibilities for summer fun with kids, and it’s important to take advantage of this special time. Whether you choose to explore nature, get creative with arts and crafts, or simply relax with a picnic in the park, the most important thing is to spend quality time together and create lasting memories. So go out and make the most of this summer with your family! Whether it’s trying a new list of summer activities or revisiting old favorites, take the time to enjoy each other’s company and make this summer one that you will always cherish.
Amanda Schmitt
