We get about 18 summers with our kids. We want to make them memorable. But, if we're being honest . . . it's hard to come up with new ideas to keep the kids busy, happy, entertained, and not feel like you're running a summer camp.
We've complied a list of our top 5, no stress, easy, summer activities with our kids. All of these can be repeated numerous times during those 3 months. We love to surprise them that day with what we are doing (plus it cuts down, on the six thousand questions they will inevitably ask).
- Picnic at the park. EASY. Throw some sandwiches together, some bags of fruit, and chips or pick up some burgers, fried chicken, or subs and make it easy on yourself! There is something about the simplicity yet adventure for kids of eating on a blanket in the park that is completely magical.
- Water Ballon Fight. Personally, we like to fill (get the self seal ones, you won't turn back) them on the other side of the house and then just surprise the kids and start launching at them. Grab each kid their own bucket with pre filled balloons and be a kid with them. Promise you'll be laughing.
- Ice Cream. ANY FORM OF IT. If you're super creative and up for it, make your own. (Kids love this), or pick up store bought and make homemade milkshakes in your blender. Bring them to your fave local ice cream place, kids, adults, teenagers, pregnant women . . . we all love ice cream. It just makes everything better.
- Glow sticks. Head to your local dollar store and stock up. They have tons of different types . . . sticks, bracelets, balls, frisbees, etc . . . Let the kids stay up a little late and have a glow party. Again, glow in the dark, is magical to kids, watch their eyes light up.
- Obstacle Courses. I bet you have all kinds of random outside toys (not just us, right?) grab what you have; old tires, pool noodles, rafts, soccer balls, jump ropes, chalk, to name a few. Set up an obstacle course in your yard. If you have a swing set, make that part of it. Time the kids, go through it yourself, set up a fruit bowl at the end for a treat as an extra goodie. Kids love doing something different and special.
All of these things cost very little, if anything. Remember to think simple. Our kids want our time. They want to laugh with us, have fun with us, they want us involved. Let go of work, household chores, and the stress of the week, and unwind with your kids. You won't regret it.
Stay fun,
The Funily Team