Family Time: Fun Things for Kids to Do

When School is Out: Keeping Your Kids Entertained

When school is out, you might frequently hear your children say, "I'm bored." Instead of allowing them to play video or television games, try one of these 50 free or low-cost ways to entertain them. This way, you won't have to worry about finding something for your children to do during the summer.

Family Time: Fun Things for Kids to Do

If you have a credit or debit card from Bank of America Merrill Lynch, you can gain free entry to over 150 museums across 31 states on the first Saturday of each month. More information can be found on the Bank of America museums program website. Additionally, you can check with local museums to see if they offer any special programs or gifts for children. This is a great opportunity for your children to learn about art and culture in a fun and interactive way (Bank of America, 2023).

Creative Arts and Crafts

Try creating oil bar plates. It's simple: fill a paper tray with brushed and bent paper (or something that slows the steel) and secure the ends with tape. Or, as some students in Florida have done, get creative by using found objects to create tools for the entire group. This activity not only encourages creativity but also promotes teamwork and collaboration among children.

Another fun craft is making picnic table decorations with shiny scales. Wash and dry stones, then cover them with a decoupage layer like Mod Podge. Before it dries, cut the stones into different shapes using colorful or embossed papers. Finally, add a second layer of adhesive to the stone and let it dry (Mod Podge, 2023).

Local Adventures and Learning

Most local fire stations offer tours for children. This can be an exciting trip for preschool children, especially those who enjoy playing with toy cars, as well as school-age children. During the visit, they can explore fire trucks and meet real firefighters, which can be both educational and inspiring.

Outdoor Games and Activities

For a fun outdoor game, gather four players and a large rubber ball. Draw a 12x12 inch square on the pavement and divide it into four squares labeled A, B, C, and D. Each player stands in their square. The game starts when one player bounces the ball in their square and hits it with an open hand to another square. This game helps improve hand-eye coordination and encourages physical activity.

Culinary Adventures

Choose a cuisine your children are unfamiliar with, like Thai or Portuguese. Find the country on a map and read a brief encyclopedia entry or go online to learn about the culture of this nation. Dining at a restaurant featuring this cuisine can be a delightful adventure and an opportunity to experience new flavors and customs.

Community Involvement

There are many opportunities for young people to contribute to their communities. For instance, many cities have horticultural clubs that beautify public spaces. Younger children can assist with tasks like weeding (under supervision), while older children can help plant seeds and bulbs. Another option is volunteering at animal shelters or visiting retirement homes, where children can bring joy to residents and learn the importance of empathy and service.

Star Gazing and Treasure Hunts

Buy a star chart and choose a location in your garden that offers a clear view of the sky. After dinner, spend some time observing how the sky changes each night. This activity not only teaches children about astronomy but also provides a relaxing way to wind down before bedtime.

Organize a treasure hunt by hiding small trinkets in the garden and creating a map with clues. For an aged look, stain the map with coffee and tear the edges. This activity encourages problem-solving skills and adds an element of adventure to outdoor play.

Classic Movie Nights

Introduce your children to classic movies suitable for those over 3 years old. Films like "Baby Take a Bow" with Shirley Temple, "Swing Time" with Ginger Rogers and Fred Astaire, or "National Velvet" with Elizabeth Taylor can be both entertaining and educational. These films offer a glimpse into past eras and provide cultural context that enriches their understanding of film history (American Film Institute, 2023).

By incorporating a variety of activities, you can ensure that your children have a fulfilling and enjoyable summer, filled with learning and exploration.