2019 Family Summer Bucket List
The first day of Summer is just around the corner! Doesn’t it always feel like you didn’t get enough beach days and summer fun in while the weather was nice? Have no fear! We’ve put together a list of ways to make the most of your summer with your kiddos.
#1. I scream, you scream, we all scream for homemade ice cream!
Making ice cream with your kids can be easier than you think (no ice cream maker required!) Try this recipe to have homemade sweet treats all summer long! Kiddoes have allergies? Try this dairy free version!
#2. Get Outside, Get Local
There are all kinds of local festivals, farmer’s markets, flea markets, and more going on each summer. Check out what’s near your family (or even your vacation spot) and explore together.
#3. Indoor/Outdoor Camping
Not quite ready to get that RV and take the kids to the middle of the woods? Camping can be as close to home as you need it to be. Pitch a tent in your backyard and enjoy telling stories, eating marshmallows, and waking up outside! Still too much? Challenge your kiddos to create an epic indoor blanket fort for a family sleepover. Bonus; no bug spray needed 🙂
#4. Nature Walk
Taking a walk in nature can be a great science exploration for young children! Practice using all of your senses as you explore the great outdoors near you. Prompt your child with questions like “what kinds of animals do you hear?” “What flowers can you smell?” “How does the grass feel on your feet?” Older children might collect specimens for leaf prints, pressed flowers, or more back at home! When you get home, try reading The Listening Walk by Paul Showers.
#5. Block Party & Night Games
Remember summer nights and games outside? Adults and kids both love flashlight tag, hide and seek, and good ole kick the can! Gather your friends and neighbors for some outdoor treats and some great exercise.
#6. Sing “The Hot Summer Song”
To the tune of “The Farmer in the Dell”
In the summer when it’s hot
In the summer when it’s hot
Oh, when it’s hot, I (activity) a lot
In the summer when it’s hot
Have kids name activities (like swim, play, read) and keep the song going!
#7. Swimming
When you can’t beat the summer heat, swimming can’t be beat! Visit your local pool or beach for a low-impact cardiovascular exercise, that also helps kids build confidence as they learn new strokes and styles. No pool near you? Try throwing on a swimsuit and running (or dancing) through a sprinkler.
#8. Picnic
Oh, what fun to eat outdoors when the weather is nice! Pack some of your favorite foods enjoy eating al fresco for a way to keep kids entertained. Bonus: sing “The Ladybugs Picnic” to practice counting to twelve.
#9. Sidewalk chalk art fair
Your canvas can be as big as you’d like when you’re outside. Kids can work on fine motor development, self-expression, and creativity!
Have favorite summer activities or traditions? Share them in the comments below!
