You only get 18 summers with your kids, this is one of them.
Summer is a precious, fleeting time. Most of my favorite memories as a kid are from the summer time. And I want to make sure my son has a ton of summer time memories too {okay- he might not remember this summer, but I will!}. And after a few weeks of serious heat, I found myself struggling to come up with fun things to do with my son. So I’ve done some research and came up with 10 fun things to do with kids this summer!
- Have a picnic :: It’s more fun to eat outside! Pack up a bag, grab a blanket and head outside- even if it’s just your own backyard. Sometimes it’s nice to just get outside and enjoy the fresh air!
- Bubbles :: We LOVE bubbles! Inside, outside- doesn’t matter! Cayson loves chasing them, making them and popping them!
- Visit a pool, splash pad or blow up a wading pool :: Cayson LOVES the water. It’s hard to come across an outdoor kid-friendly pool in NYC, but we love splash pads and wading pools. There are quite a few cheap wading pool options on Amazon!
- Go feed the ducks :: Grab some bread and go feed the ducks at a local pond. It’s fun to watch little ones watch the ducks as the run around!
- Enjoy ice cream or popsicles outside :: We’re a big ice cream family and I love watching Cayson’s eyes light up and he enjoys my favorite summer treat. We enjoy eating them outside because sometimes ice cream is more fun when you can get a little messy!
- Fly a kit :: This is on my bucket list with Cayson. I remember flying a kite on the beach as a little girl and remember how much I loved it!
- Create a sensory experience :: There are so many fun sensory games. I’ve created a full Pinterest board of ideas here.
- Visit a playground :: Head to the playground and let your kids get out some energy!
- Play with chalk :: Draw streets for toy cars, write the ABC’s, play tic-tac-toe, or just doodle.
- Go to the zoo :: I have so many memories of trips to the San Diego Zoo as a kid. I always loved learning about animals.
Did you know the sense of smell is closely linked with memory- more than any of the other senses? It’s scientifically proven that certain smells cause you to recall specific memories, without even trying! I think this is part of why I love having a candle burning at all times. When I buy candles, I always gravitate towards ones that remind me of my favorite places or memories. So when I discovered Otherland summer candles I was beyond excited! They are literally created to remind you of your childhood summers- from beach days and sweet jam to tennis courts and fresh cut grass. If you only buy one, do yourself a favor and buy the Matchpoint. It smells amazing!! I always keep a 5-10 new candles on hand to use as hostess gifts or housewarming gifts. Because, who doesn’t love a candle and being reminded of special moments?
Do you have any other fun summer suggestions?
on me
top :: shorts :: headband {set of 6 for under $20} :: lip stain
couch :: rug {$200} :: coffee table {he can make to your exact size needs} :: pillows old, love these
Love these! One more idea… visit Babunya and Pop Pop (So excited to see you soon)
I think that everything with water is a great choice for children. I am lucky to live by the sea, so going to the beach is almost a daily activity in summer.
Playing with chalk used to be my go-to! However, with all of the rain and constant thunderstorms, it’s really difficult now. Great suggestions!
I love the photos! They look like you’re really enjoying yourself with your kid. These are great tips anyway, and great activities for this summer.
These photos are too cute! I honestly think the simplest things are always the best for kids. They don’t need fancy toys just a set of bubbles !
Love your blog and all your suggestions! The chalk “road” is a great idea!
Love these ideas. We always try to incorporate activities that are educational, exercise or just plain ol’ fun. That way their brains never turn to much during summer.
OMGG yesss! i want to go fly a kite, you have inspired me! I love your writing. Thank you for sharing.
With love,
JenRa
**Check out my latest: https://lifewithjenra.wordpress.com/2019/08/02/day-25-30-take-it-all/ ***
I don’t have kids yet, but I’ll try some of these with my godson or with my nieces :D
Just an FYI, be careful with doing bubbles over carpet because sometimes they can discolor! So weird because they are usually clear, but it happened to us, unfortunately.
Nice I have several more activities to try with my daughter. Thank you.
Thanks for the tips. Will try with my niece!
These are all great ideas! I love how it promotes “being outside” because most kids these days usually just plays with their gadgets. I’d encourage my future kids to do most of these like flying a kite and having picnics.
Brilliant ideas! Gonna try this soon! Thanks!
i love how you put the idea of 18 summers. it really makes sense to me as mother that i should not let the summer pass by easily without making my kid happy.
These are great ideas! I’ll tell all my mom friends but keep some in my pocket for when I babysit haha
such beautiful photos! I love these suggestions
Kite flying sounds very interesting and fun.
Great ideas! Playing with toddlers is fun but sometimes it is boring too :D Especially for moms these tips are useful.