Summer Activities for Kids

Summer is right around the corner which means our kiddos are home on vacation from school or in our current case, since COVID 19, home with no schoolwork. Entertaining kids can be stressful because you can entertain them for a day, maybe 2, but almost 3 months of entertainment is a bit of a challenge. Creating a list of possible ideas to do with the kids can be a good idea; it can be your go to when you are stuck and have no idea what you can do with them. You can even create it with the kids to get their input on some things they would especially like to partake in. We are here to save the day and give you some starter ideas!

1. Make homemade popsicles         

What kid doesn’t love a popsicle? Especially in the summer heat! So, why not make some fresh and healthy popsicles at home? It is super easy, and kids will like taking part in making them all while using just 6 ingredients. Here is a recipe:

1/2 cup Blueberries

2 Kiwis

2 Peaches

5 Strawberries

1 32 oz bottles Water, flavored

1 Popsicle mold (comes in different mold amounts/this recipe is created based on 6 popsicle molds)

All you have to do is cut up the fruit and evenly distribute it into the molds and then add a bit of water, filling just one half of the mold and put the sticks in, then freeze away!

2. Go indoor camping                            

If camping outside is not an option, you can always do it inside! All you need to do is use a tent (either you have one or you have no problem buying one), but if that is not an option, you can make one using blankets and chairs. Just make sure you create an empty space for all of this. Then, if you’re able to get outside in a yard or garden, challenge your children to find interesting leaves, rocks or pebbles or have them complete an obstacle course or scavenger hunt.

You can even make smores inside! Here are the ingredients you will need: 32 miniature graham crackers or 8 regular size graham crackers, broken in 1/2

2 milk chocolate bars, the kind that can be broken into squares

8 marshmallows

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F.

Lay 1/2 of the graham crackers on a cookie sheet. Top with chocolate pieces to cover. Use kitchen scissors to snip the marshmallows in 1/2 horizontally if using miniature crackers and place 1/2 a marshmallow on top of each graham cracker. If using regular size crackers use a whole marshmallow.

Bake until the marshmallows are puffed and golden brown, about 3 to 5 minutes. Remove from the oven and top with the remaining graham crackers, pressing down slightly to make a sandwich. Serve immediately, while still warm.

3. Plant a flower or vegetable garden       

Here are 5 steps to take when planting either a flower or vegetable garden. Kids will need supervision because they do not know the process, but it will be a great learning opportunity for them.

1. Let them pick the plants: Take a trip to your local grocery store or farmer’s market and let the kids pick out their favorite fruits and veggies. I am sure most kids do not want to grow broccoli and the least they can do is pick a plant they actually like to increase motivation and enthusiasm.
2. Prep Your Bed: Before planting, start at the beginning of the process by explaining the uses for different garden tools. Encourage kids to pick the spots for their new plants. Ask them to check the plant tags for information on spacing and sunlight and then determine the best spot.
3. Plant: Most kids love digging holes. Once they have accomplished that task, it’s time to plant. Demonstrate how to gently remove plants from the container and loosen up the roots before planting.
4. Add nutrients and water: Just like people, plants need healthy nutrients to grow big and strong. Choose a fertilizer and then water the plants.
5. Create a schedule: Get kids involved in maintaining the garden by creating a monthly chart that includes days to water and feed. Chart when plants should be ready for harvest and create a countdown for your favorite plants.

These are just some of the hundreds of ideas you can do for your kiddos right in the comfort of your own home. We know going out and engaging in a multitude of activities is not an option at this point, once again due to COVID 19, but these activities will be fun for the whole family to engage in without having to go far. Here is a link to many more ideas! 

https://funcheaporfree.com/100-summer-activities-for-kids-free-printable-included/