What are Your Kids Doing this Summer?

Travel

May 24

A highlight from summer 2021 at Walnut Creek National Monument

The school year is wrapping up and your kids are going to be ready for some fun! Whether you are able to spend the summer days with your kiddos or have others help you keep your kids busy, it’s going to be great summer. I like to have some plans with room for last minute additions. I’ll be honest, I do think it’s important to have some time for everyone to relax and enjoy summer.

Make a summer bucket list - Have everyone in your family help create a list of fun things to do over the summer. They can be simple activities that you make sure you do. Is it having an outdoor movie night? Enjoying a staycation? Making ice cream? Whatever it may be, have fun! Click here to to download a free bucket list template. I’ve included one filled in and another that is blank. Print the PDFs at home or at your local print shop.
Look into activities offered by your local parks & rec department. Programs are usually offered for kids. This summer my kids will be involved in quite a few of the offered programs.
Plan a day trip to explore a destination not too far from home. Is there a spot you have been curious about visiting? Or a place you would like to return to?
Road trip anyone? Gas prices are quite high, but there’s nothing better than a summer road trip if you ask me. When planning your trip, determine your travel budget. This will help determine the distance you can travel during your vacation. Consider camping to save money. If you’re interested in staying at a state or national park, get to booking while there are still spots available.
Establish a routine - When you aren’t traveling, create a daily list of options for your kids to complete. Does it include a mix of chores, fun and some time to read? Each summer, I create a workbook for each of my kids. It includes a list of items they must complete for the day, along with a list of items they can then choose to do. A few items on the list include; 20 minutes of reviewing math, completing a simple science experiment, making a new recipe, etc… While, my kids LOVE summer vacation, they also benefit from having a routine. Having a little structure always tends to be a good thing.
Volunteer - Find an organization that allows children to help volunteer. Is it a food bank or a local animal shelter? If kids are not able to volunteer on-site, they may want to have a lemonade stand to raise money for a non-profit of their choice.
Enjoy the water - Whether you are enjoying your backyard pool, a waterpark, or the river, cool off by spending time in the water. A little time in the water is always fun and refreshing.
Visit the Library - Set reading goals with your kids (and yourself) this summer and head over to your local library to check out the top books on your list.
Send Snail Mail - Encourage your kids to send friends and family postcards throughout the summer. This is a fun way to keep people in touch and it’s always fun to look forward to receiving mail.
Stargaze - Enjoy the summer nights by stargazing. Download the Night Sky app on your iPhone or iPad to see what constellations are in the sky.