It is important to keep the kids entertained during the summer. Sure, they will spend lots of time outside with friends and family, but keeping activities on hand will make everyone’s summer happier. Like the movie “Judy Moody’s Not So Bummer Summer,” it’s good to work with your kids and create a bucket list of activities and things they want to do. Here are a few we recommend having on the list.
Catch Fireflies: Most people have fond memories of late nights chasing and catching fireflies. A jar of fireflies can light up the night (or a tent) and is a beautiful, natural site. Be sure to safely catch the fireflies and to keep them in a jar with grass and a ventilated lid. And only keep them for a day and then set them free.
Take a Hike: Walking in the woods and discovering nature is a great way for kids to explore. Give them a paper bag to collect sticks and stones to keep memories from the hike (and they could turn into an additional art project!). Wear a bathing suit in case you find a secret watering hole for cooling off.
Make a Lemonade Stand: Easy and delicious, a lemonade stand will keep the kids busy for hours. All you need is a table, lemonade mix (or homemade), pitchers, cups, and a jar to collect donations. Rather than selling the lemonade, have your kids pick a charity that they believe in. Make a poster speaking to that charity and ask for donations. When they are done, donate the money to the charity to show the kids the good they have done through their lemonade stand.
Plant a Garden: Reserve a small section of your garden for the kids. Or give each kid a large pot to have as his or her own. Herb gardens are fun because they smell good and you can use the herbs while cooking with your children. Other ideas are colorful plants and then allow your child to decorate with sticks and stones to truly make it their own!
All of these activities are outdoors so it is important to protect from biting insects. The best tip: apply and re-apply insect repellent like Natrapel, DEET-free insect repellent to both clothes and skin. And always have an insect bite treatment like After Bite for itch relief from bites.