Top 15 Summer Activities for Kids

Summer vacation is here and we are faced with the question of what to do with all that time – and how do we entertain the kids. Even though we have made adjustments to our budgets, it does not have to affect how much fun this summer can be.

Here are some helpful ideas to fill in those long summer days.

1. Start some type of collection – Bugs are everywhere and once properly dried can be collected; marbles of every color and shape; coins or whatever interest them.

2. Record and catalog information – What type of birds they have spotted, wild flowers or animals. What better way to learn than from hands on experience.

3. Visit the Zoo – But don’t just walk through it and you’re done…sit and draw the animals and discover what they’re doing. Research the animals native habitat and what they eat. Have each child pick an animal to research and visit the animal on return trips to the zoo. Maybe your family can try to raise money for that animal and its needs.

4. Visit the Museums: Art museum – Have them pick one of their favorite pieces of art and research the artist. Where did they come from and what other works of art are they known for? History museum – Research their favorite part of history and share what information they have learned. Science Museum – Find something that interest them in this area and have them research it.

5. Go to the park – Pack a picnic lunch, invite some friends, play sports, fly a kite, and have fun.

6. Go fishing – Dust off that old fishing pole and take them fishing. Learn the different types of fish that they could catch. What types of bait to use. Don’t forget that fishing license.

7. Go biking – Pack a small backpack with water, snacks, and drinks. Explore your local parks and exercise.

8. Go hiking – Hit those trails and start walking. Find some trails that you’ve never been on before.

9. Study the architecture of nearby buildings while walking around town. Take photos, create a photo album or on-line photo gallery (like Flickr), or draw the different designs. Research other buildings that were influenced by the same or similar architects.

10. Go to your Public Library – They have many great things going on all summer long: summer reading clubs, a great place for resources and research, and air conditioning.

11. Go to the farmers market to see all the vendors and fresh produce. Create a treasure hunt and see who can find the items the quickest.

12. Do community service work – Pick up litter in a park, work in a shelter serving food, or contact someone to find out where they would need help that the whole family could get involved in.

13.  Visit the elderly in homes; make cards and cookies for them.

14. Journals – Have them write down there thoughts, feelings, and experiences. Keep them in the habit of writing.

15. Write letters to friends and family, especially if they don’t have email. Send those wonderful works of art that are usually over flowing in your own home.

What are some ideas that you have used to help keep the family sane in the summer? Please comment and share your tips.