Summer Fun Tips

Just because it is summer does not mean that the learning needs to stop. A fun way to keep on top of learning is to have family trivia and quiz night. Take some of the things that the kids learned during the school year and have fun with it. Do parents vs. kids trivia challenge.

Summer reading lists may seem daunting to a kid. Parents can make it more fun by reading the same book (a great way to read some of those classics you may not have as a kid) and have discussions about the story.

Got a paved driveway or a sidewalk in front of your house? Buy sidewalk chalk and have fun. Play games of tic-tac-toe or hopscotch. The great thing is to clean up all you need is rain (or a hose if you don’t want to wait for rain).

Who needs a crowded local pool on hot days when you have a basic garden water hose? A fun water fight is a great way to cool off. Water balloons are also lots of fun – as long as parents set ground rules so no one gets hurt by one.

Bubbles are great fun during the summer. Contests can be made to see who can get the biggest, or the most, or who can catch one on their hand.

Day trips are fun no matter what age you are. Find a local museum, park, or zoo in your state that you have either never been to, or have never been before. It does not always require a lot of money to have a good time.

Plan a picnic with family and friends. Fill a basket with sandwiches, drinks, chip and fruit, grab a blanket and head outside to eat.

Take advantage of the long summer evenings. The weather will cool down a bit, and there will still be enough daylight left for many activities.

Many communities hold special events during evenings/nights/weekends throughout the summer. Consult your local newspaper or community's website to see what activities may be going on.

Whenever possible, TURN OFF THE TV! Sometimes there is nothing more satisfying than finishing a good book whilst sitting under a tree or a shaded area. Take advantages of reruns and lackluster summer programming by finding fun things to do outdoors!

When taking a trip to the beach, try to be aware of what type of beach it is that you are visiting. Some beaches are known more for being party beaches such as Daytona Beach, FL; while, others like the beaches of Nags Head, NC are known more for a family environment. Choose a beach location that will fit your situation and expectations for the optimal fun experience.

Use sunscreen whenever you go outside, and make sure your kids use it too. SPF 15 is the minimum protection.

Teach your kids to swim! Start young and make sure they have a healthy respect for the water.

Find a local lake that rents canoes or rowboats and get out on the water. It's like a mini vacation.

Get back in touch with nature. Get away from your usual surroundings. Go somewhere, turn off your phone and just relax!

Plan a trip to a historic place that has lots of outdoor points of interest you can walk to.