Summer is here! Before you know it, you’ll be looking for ways to keep your kids entertained. To help you fight the relentless protests of “I’m bored”, here are some great boredom busters and activities you can do with your kids this summer.
- Visit Your Local Library
Libraries are a great place to take kids. Most libraries have story programs or reading activities and there’s an endless selection of books to keep your young reader occupied. If your kids haven’t yet adapted a love of reading, ask your librarian for book suggestions or try a graphic novel. Graphic novels are filled with pictures that can help early readers understand the story and keep their attention.
- Sports
Most cities have sporting leagues for kids. Sports are a great way to keep kids occupied while giving them a fun way to exercise and make friends. Another idea: go see a baseball game at your local stadium.
- Camping
Camping is a great way to get out of the house and explore. Find a spot to pitch your tent, whether it’s in a nearby state park, somewhere far away, or even in your backyard. Spend the night looking up at the stars, catching fireflies, and making s’mores. When the sun comes up, go exploring and cool down by going for a swim.
- Make a Fort
Clear out some space in your living room, prop some blankets up on chairs or couches, and throw some pillows on the floor. Add a few snacks and some movies and you’ve just entertained your kids for the evening with little effort or money. To make it even more exciting, turn it into a slumber party and let them invite one or two of their closest friends over to stay the night. They’ll love sleeping in the fort!
- Learn a New Skill
Whether its music, swimming, art, or some other hobby or skill, odds are there’s a kid-centered program for it at your local community center or parks and recreation office. Get a list of the courses being offered and find one that works for your child. These classes typically have a cost, so keep that in mind when selecting one.
- Search Online
If you find yourself in a pinch and don’t have any ideas for the kids, hop online. There are hundreds of blogs and articles brimming with ideas for fun activities. Pinterest is a particularly excellent resource for boredom busters. Do a few searches, make a list of fun activities, crafts, or outings and have fun!
- Art Projects
Bust out the construction paper, paint, scissors, glitter, googly eyes, and any other craft supplies you may have laying around. Art projects are a great way for kids to use their imaginations. A classic art project – especially for a rainy day – is making a paper mache piñata. Kids will love dipping strips of newspaper into the paste, piecing it all together, and decorating it.
- Get in the Kitchen
Spend some time in the kitchen baking. Let your child help pour, measure, crack eggs, and stir. Spend some time decorating sugar cookies or cupcakes. Baking can be a great way to spend time together and it will help your child develop confidence in themselves, as well as learn basic kitchen skills.
- Garden
Plant a garden with your kids! They will love seeing their efforts turn into plants or flowers. Gardening will also teach them the responsibility necessary to care for plants and patience as they wait for the flowers to bloom or vegetables to produce. You can also use it as an opportunity to teach your kids about nutrition.
- Get Up and Move
One of the best activities to keep kids entertained is movement. Dancing, jumping, running, and even doing kid-friendly yoga are great ideas. Put on some music and dance around the living room! Pretend to be rock stars and perform a concert for millions of invisible fans. If a pretend rock concert isn’t your style, try doing yoga together. It’s a great form of exercise and is good for the soul.
Keeping kids entertained doesn’t have to be difficult. While it takes a little creativity and planning, with a little effort, you can easily make the summer a fun-filled adventure.