Summer often proves to be a wonderful time of year to enjoy the sunshine and get outside, as well as to enjoy the time you have indoors on days when it’s not so sunny, but let’s face it: school is barely over before you begin to hear the summer chorus.
“I’m bored.”
On repeat all day long.
So if you’re struggling to know exactly what to do with your kids to keep them active and engaged during the long summer days ahead, here are some helpful tips to inspire you and your family this season.
#1 – Bring back board games
There are few better ways to spend an evening with your family. My teenage son recently pulled out Scrabble and asked to play, and we’ve done it almost every night this week. After all, for a long time, board games were one of the main forms of entertainment for generations who didn’t have the luxury of televisions or the internet.
While it’s difficult for kids today to imagine what that was like, it’s a fun activity to introduce them to and take their love of gaming to a new level with in-person competition for the whole family. And, there are so many games to choose from. My sister recently introduced us to Shut the Box, and we ordered it almost immediately. Not only is it fast and fun, but it is also a great way for kids to practice math skills. I wish I had known about it while I was tutoring a Classical Conversations Essentials class this past year. Learning disguised as play? Sign me up any day.
Planning a family game night is one easy way to pry your kids away from all their screens.
#2 – Organise a treasure hunt in your backyard
A treasure hunt is a great way to keep your kids active and engaged, especially when it comes to spending time in their own backyard. Treasure hunts also provide an excellent opportunity to use some of their cognitive skills as they work to figure out where the treasure lies.
Creating a treasure hunt from scratch is pretty easy to do, and if you aren’t feeling very creative, that’s ok. The clues don’t necessarily have to be clever. You can also find inspiration online. There are plenty of treasure hunt templates and ideas online that you can make use of in order to help pull off a wonderful treasure hunt in your backyard.
#3 – Increase the number of extracurricular activities they do
To help keep your kids busy over summer vacation, consider what extracurricular activities they’re currently doing. Some of these activities will continue over the summer vacation, while others will take a break for the season. It’s good to explore all of the different extracurricular activities available in your area and encourage your kids try as many as possible. Even if your kids don’t seem very interested at first, summer is a great time to dip their toes into something new because day camps often offer brief introductions to various activities. Who knows? Maybe they’ll find a talent they didn’t know they have or a lifelong love of a sport might be born.
From booking ballet classes to taking up jujitsu, try a variety during the summer if you’re able. The kids will be active, and they’ll be developing new skills, too.
#4 – Cook and bake together
Teaching your kids to cook is one way to prepare them for the real world, and the good things is you’re probably cooking every day any way. All you have to do is look for opportunities to involve your kids in the process.
Even if they’re still too young to participate in every aspect of meal prep, there are plenty of tasks that little hands can help with. Washing fruit, buttering bread, and rolling out dough are all things smaller kids like to do. Let them. Also, if you’re measuring ingredients, let them help you count as you go. Again, learning and fun make a great combination.
#5 – Go outdoors for a walk and picnic
Taking a long walk outdoors is certainly good for your body and your mind. It’s a great way for parents to unwind, but it’s beneficial for your kids, too. It’s a good form of exercise that often doesn’t feel like exercise to your children, especially when you promise them a picnic for lunch or if you encourage a nature walk along the way.
Even if you live in a city, there are parks and green spaces that you can enjoy. Getting outdoors for a walk doesn’t cost you anything and can be a good distraction from spending time indoors and on electronics.
#6 – Have an arts and crafts afternoon
An arts and crafts afternoon is a good way to inspire creativity within your children. Everyone can benefit from getting in touch with his or her creative side, and kids love to create! I like to keep art supplies on hand, and my kids know they are welcome to them. When creativity strikes, I want them to be ready. Other times, we will do specific activities. This is one of my favorite TikTok creators to follow for easy art tutorials that are fun to follow.
#7 – Plan a Movie Marathon
Movie days are a fun way to spend rainy days. Make it special with popcorn and snacks. Let the kids build a blanket fort or tent and snuggle up for the show. Maybe consider having a movie marathon and settling in for a day of entertainment.
#8 – Spend some time with friends and family
Spending time with friends and family is one of the most fun ways to pass the time this summer. Invite friends over to join you for any of the above activities, or include grandparents in the fun you’re planning. Summer is a great time for kids to deepen their friendships and make wonderful memories. While kids play, you can enjoy a little of the encouragement that only comes from other moms. Have a cup of coffee together while your kids create art or play Monopoly. You’ll enjoy summer just as much as they do!
It can be challenging to keep your kids active and engaged during the summer, but with a little planning and creativity, your family will enjoy a summer to remember!
Disclosure: This is a collaborative post and may contain affiliate links.
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