Summertime means sunshine, popsicles, swimming pools, and barbeques. It means grass-stained pants, trips to the beach, and water balloons.
But for parents, summer can also mean chaos.
The kids are out of school and no matter how many camps you put them in, there is still a huge increase in the amount of time they are home, together, without their usual routines and schedules. While that free time can be exciting at first, the task can often become daunting for parents who struggle to keep their children occupied without breaking the budget.
When kids are out and about, exploring the world around them, there is less time to bicker and more time to learn and thrive. Here are some summertime activities that will entertain your children, ignite their imaginations, and release some of their energy without breaking the bank:
- Backyard obstacle courses. Kids love being challenged. Obstacle courses are great because they can be catered to every age and ability level. Run around the yard twice, glide down the slide, jump over the toy bin, slither through the grass, splash in the mini-pool and race to the finish line! These exciting tasks will make your child feel like a superhero while also practicing their ability to follow directions. Ready, set, go!
- Scavenger hunts at local parks. Spend a half hour or so looking up some local parks and their features - this list of Macaroni Kid Favorites is a great place to start. Use the information to create scavenger hunts that require the kids to explore the many attributes that make our parks unique. Ask them to find certain plants, pinecones, flowers, and more! This will get your kids excited about nature and will teach them an appreciation of the outdoors. Click here for some free printables that will help guide your experience.
- Weekly trips to the library. King County boasts one of the best library systems in the country. Our libraries are absolute gems to our community and they are overflowing with free activities and entertainment for children and adults alike. From book readings to arts and crafts, Lego parties to music concerts, your kids will never get enough of the exciting events available in many of the nearby branches and parks. Check out the children’s page on the King County Library System website for a calendar.
- Outdoor movies never seem to lose their magic. Kids adore being outside, beyond the confines of walls. Many of these film screenings are free or are funded by donation. Thrillist has put together a complete list of all of the outdoor movies being offered in the greater Seattle area this summer. Sit down with your kids and check out the many offerings in your area, allowing each child to pick a flick. Who knows, you might even see one of your favorites on the list, too!
Happy summer!
Here are past articles from Encompass:
