10 Fun Things for Kids To Do This Summer

The school year is coming to an end, and that means that it’s time to start thinking about what to do with the kids for the summer. Kids need a bit of variety, and they need activities that can stimulate mind and body. And, while we will have daily reading time and I bought a big activity book to keep my son’s learning mind-set intact, there’s more to summer time than just trying to stay sharp for school in the fall. Here 10 fun (and sometimes educational) summer activities for kids to do:

1. Go swimming. Most municipal pools offer swimming lessons. Take your younger children to the pool, and have them learn how to swim. For older kids, who may already know how to swim, buy a swim pass to the pool. That way they can go and enjoy themselves. Family outings to the pool can be a fun (and cool) summer activity. For another water related activity, consider buying cheap squirt guns. These are a lot of fun, and they last long (and make less mess) than water balloons.

   

2. Parks and Recreation neighborhood activities. In my town, Parks and Recreation offers an afternoon program in neighborhood parks. Children can meet, with city-provided adult supervision, at the park to learn to play games, do crafts and participate in social play. In my town, this service is offered free for four hours every afternoon. Even in areas where these programs cost money,  the fee is usually small.
3. Sports programs. There are a number of sports programs offered over the summer. My son is doing T-ball. Baseball, soccer, tennis, flag football, golf and basketball are all offered in many localities. While you don’t have to go through your city to participate in these programs, it is often less expensive if you do. Find out what’s available, and then sign your child up for something he or she will enjoy.
4. Amusement parks and fun centers. Not everyone lives near an amusement park. But there might be a smaller fun center nearby. While we don’t have an amusement park, we have a center with a kids’ go cart track, mini-golf and small rides. Find out if you can get a discount season pass to nearby fun centers and amusement parks. You’ll save a little money, and have someplace for your kids to go.
5. Nature walks and outdoor experiences. One of my favorite things to do with my son is go for nature walks. You can even do this in a local park — you don’t have to get out of town. Talk about trees and rocks, bushes and flowers, and see if you can spot wildlife. Many towns also have nature centers. You can check for planned nature walks, as well as day camps aimed at children. As a family, you can go camping, take day trips to picnic areas, go hiking or biking, or even visit the lake (or the ocean). Spending time outdoors is a great way to connect with your child — it’s one of the best family summer time activities.
6. The public library. Many libraries have summer time activities. Story time is a perennial childhood favorite. Many libraries also include craft days and book fairs. But, even if your library doesn’t have any of these things, it’s nice to go and pick out books. My son gets his books, and then I let him play on computers or read children’s magazines in the kid’s section while I get my books. It’s a great way to enjoy a little quiet “me” time while he is amused. Plus, you can check out movies as well, to spice up the summer rotation for little to no cost (depending on the cost of a library card in your city).
7. Zoos, aquariums and museums. Educational, fun and physically engaging! Many zoos, aquariums and museums have special children’s days and activities during the summer. You can get a season pass, and visit more than once. Check around town for national or regional historical sites and heritage centers. These types of outings also make great family memories.

   

8. Youth programs. I was a happily involved in 4-H growing up. There are a number of programs available for children ages 5 and up (younger children, ages 5-8, are actually Cloverbuds). Children meet in clubs and complete projects. My favorite projects included rocketry, geology, forestry and money management. And for older kids, there are conferences, retreats and activities. Other youth programs, such as Boys & Girls Clubs, YMCA, Girl Scouts and Boy Scouts also offer low-cost, fun opportunities for kids of various ages and interests. And they’ll learn something, too!
9. Summer camp. Youth programs can take care of the summer camp thing, but if you just want a a good summer camp, you can check with the American Camp Association. This is something for kids who are a little older, though. Perhaps wait until your child is 8 or 9 before sending him or her off to summer camp. Shorter camps — one or two weeks — are a good choice, since it gives the kids the chance to do something fun for a reasonably length of time, but it doesn’t feel like you are trying to get rid of them.
10. Day camp. If overnight summer camp isn’t your thing, consider a day camp. These are normally fairly inexpensive, and provide a range of educational and fun activities for children of all ages. I’m sending my son to a day camp for four hours, three days a week for a month this summer. He can’t wait. It is something that keeps him busy and lets him interact with other children.