How to Plan Free Summer Activities for Kids

Summer is here, and the kids will finally be home full-time. Instead of being daunted by the thought and dreading all that unscheduled time, imagine all the fun you can have as you and the kids embark on all sorts of free adventures. The adventures don't even have to involve much travel or imagination, since there are lots of free things you can take part in with your kids to keep you happily active over the summer. A healthy balance of outdoor activities, indoor fun time and some quiet artistic pursuits can add up to a full and hearty summer to remember. Here are some ideas. Get out and enjoy the time together.

Instructions

1. Visit the library. While this can be a free outing itself, resulting in books and videos to bring home, you can also find a schedule of free events taking place all summer at the library. There are usually kid-centered activities like story times, magicians and book clubs that meet at libraries during the summer. Also pick up a free parenting magazine at the library which will let you know about local happenings during the summer months in your city. A great resource for free activities in your area.

2. Do outdoor excursions. Visit the fire station, the park or the beach. Go on a picnic. Go on a hike. Visit a museum. Go on bike rides. Roller skate. Skateboard. Climb trees. Find summer concerts in the park.

3. Cook with your kids. Every few weeks or so (or when you're feeling brave), let them be in charge of helping cook all the meals and desserts in one day, with you assisting.

4. Do things with water. Wash cars, run through sprinklers, make mud pies with the hose, or fill up a kiddie pool. Go swimming at a friend's house, in a river or in a lake.

5. Do art projects. Paint. Draw with chalk outside. Color. Make collages. Cut and glue.