10 Fun Things to do with Kids this Summer

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!

1. 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!
2. Bubbles :: We LOVE bubbles! Inside, outside- doesn’t matter! Cayson loves chasing them, making them and popping them!
3. 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!
4. 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!
5. 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!
6. 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!
7. Create a sensory experience :: There are so many fun sensory games. I’ve created a full Pinterest board of ideas here.
8. Visit a playground :: Head to the playground and let your kids get out some energy!
9. Play with chalk :: Draw streets for toy cars, write the ABC’s, play tic-tac-toe, or just doodle.
10. 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?

candles

on me
top :: shorts :: headband {set of 6 for under $20} :: lip stain

on Cayson
shirt :: shorts

couch :: rug {$200} :: coffee table {he can make to your exact size needs} :: pillows old, love these

***Thank you Otherland for sponsoring this post. All opinions are my own.