Summer Fun Activities

Summer is the time to go on adventures and try new things, but more often than not, kids end up watching too much TV or declaring themselves bored. As parents, it can be a challenge to keep little ones engaged while still managing everything else on your plate. Here are some fun and creative ideas to fight off boredom this summer—and make memories along the way.

Outdoor Adventures

1. Swimming 

Swimming is a classic summer activity! But if you don’t have a pool or time to supervise your kiddos, then there are still other fun ways to keep your kids cool, such as slip-n-slides, sprinkler time, and water balloon fights. 

2. Bike Rides

Biking is a great way to have fun and get exercise this summer. You can let your children loose on the neighborhood streets or visit local bike trails together.

3. Cloud Gazing

For a more peaceful afternoon, try cloud gazing—the earliest form of entertainment. Searching for shapes among the fluffy forms is the best way to relax in nature. 

4. Backyard Campout

There’s no need to go further than your backyard to camp. All you need are tents and sleeping bags. Top it off with microwave s’mores and spooky stories to make an unforgettable night. 

5. Lemonade Stand

Almost every child loves lemonade, and the more entrepreneurial spirits love cash. Let your children make the lemonade and sell it themselves. A lemonade stand is a fun and delicious way to spend the afternoon. 

Indoor Fun

1. Baking 

Summer is a great time to try out new recipes! Baking leaves your kids with some kitchen skills and a sweet treat afterward. 

2. Card Games

There are endless ways to have fun with a deck of cards. Teach your child your favorite card game or let them make up their own. To switch it up a bit, your kid could also learn card tricks to share with the family. 

3. Dance Party

Turn off the lights, put on some energetic music, and you have yourself a dance party. Glowsticks and snacks are a must! This is a super fun way for your children to let loose and expel energy.

4. Reading

Reading is the perfect fun and educational activity, especially if your child needs some quiet time. Summer reading also keeps kids on track for the next school year. If your kid needs extra encouragement, set book challenges to make reading more exciting.   

Creative Crafts

1. Summer Journal or Scrapbook

Children can use personalized journals to write their thoughts and collect memories. Not only should your kid write in this journal, but they can also save photos, draw, and make collages. They’ll be left with a book full of summer fun!

2. Tie-dye

Tie-dye is another artsy activity for your kids to enjoy. They can make shirts, hats, and almost any other article of clothing in their favorite colors. 

3. Fairy Gardens

Building a fairy garden can be a fun and whimsical craft. Your child can collect trinkets for their garden at thrift stores and garage sales, and design it in any way they want. 

4. Time Capsule

Another great craft is making a time capsule to open next summer. Your child can decorate a box to hold all the objects they find special, and then bury it in the backyard or store it in a safe place. 

Family Outings

1. Zoo or Aquarium

At your local zoo or aquarium, there are sights to see and things to learn. Pique your child’s curiosity about the natural world and make a fun trip for the whole family.

2. Bowling or Mini Golf

Fuel your family’s competitive streak this summer with fun games like bowling or mini golf. These classic activities are perfect for all ages and offer excitement, entertainment, and teamwork. 

3. Museum

A museum visit is another great educational activity, whether your kids are interested in history, art, or nature. Just because school is out, doesn’t mean children can’t keep learning. 

4. Volunteering

This summer is the perfect time to give back to the community. Your whole family can volunteer at animal shelters, soup kitchens, or beach clean ups for a fun and fulfilling day together.