Though the first official day of summer hasn’t arrived yet, I am willing to bet your kids are already working on melting their brain in front of the television and video games.
I know mine are and we are only the second week into summer vacation. In order to keep them from melting from boredom (and your television from overheating), I’ve got some ideas to help you make it through!
Kicking them outside isn’t enough. It used to be that kids could make their own fun outside but not anymore! If you want to keep them busy for awhile (so you can clean, sleep, work, whatever you need); create a scavenger hunt for them! Fill it with outdoor things to find. Some of the things could be:
Green bug (only if you want to see the bug)
Leaf rubbing
Dandelion
Pinecones
Feathers
Acorns
Something Plastic
Something empty
Something scented
Use your imagination to create the list or have the kids contribute ideas! Offer prizes for the first one who returns with the most complete list
You don’t necessarily need a club house or play house to have some fun – Set up a tent outside with some lawn chairs and blankets and let them play house – outside! There is something about a tent that kids love, I know as a kid, I didn’t care if we actually camped or not, I just enjoyed the tent!
In the evenings before it gets totally dark, start an impromptu game of hide and seek! Use flashlights to navigate the way or even "trick" the seeker.
When the days are too hot, get out the hose and play tag! One person is it and who ever they tag with a stream of water is next! Everyone stays cool and no one will mind having to be "IT".
Dodge ball water balloon style will keep kids cool and provide a ton of fun as they dodge (or not) the water balloons!
We always take plenty of trips to the library and gather up craft and cooking books for kids. The kids get to choose the crafts and foods they want to try and we let creativity run wild.
As the summer roles on, I am always excited to get new ideas for keeping kids busy and entertained!
