As summer approaches, finding fun and engaging summer activities for kids is a top priority for many families. For many people, the summer season is about creating amazing memories with their children and family as the busy schedules of school days wind down and the sun shines longer. If you are like me, it can be a balancing act on how to ensure your kids have a memorable summer without breaking the bank. Summer activities do not have to be expensive to be fun and memorable as there are many budget-friendly options that are simple, creative, and even free.
Discovering a variety of summer activities that are enjoyable and affordable does not have to be overwhelming. Involve the entire family in the planning process to help build a list of activities. This way everyone can look forward to and be enthusiastic about the plans. Balancing bigger outings with simple everyday adventures helps keep the summer engaging and exciting.
From outdoor adventures to indoor exploration, there are options to meet all interests and age groups. Here are some activity suggestions to help you plan.
Indoor Fun:
- Cook together as a family; make homemade popsicles or try your own homemade pizza night.
- Build a blanket fort-read stories, watch movies, enjoy popcorn in your indoor homemade oasis.
- Playing with board games or puzzles are not only entertaining, but can reduce stress, improve patience and boost problem solving skills.
- Create a treasure hunt around the house or yard.
- Enjoy quiet time writing your own story or reading a book.
Outdoor Adventures:
- Plan nature walks or a bike ride around the neighborhood or park.
- Enjoy water play in sprinklers, a pool, or have a water balloon or squirt gun battle.
- Create art with sidewalk chalk.
- Set up a tent for a backyard campout under the stars.
- Plant a garden of flowers or vegetables to tend to and enjoy all summer long.
- Design an obstacle course for your kids to exercise and increase coordination.
- Play catch with a frisbee, other outdoor sports, or start a kickball game with friends.
STEM/Do-It-Yourself Activities:
- Grow salt or sugar crystals.
- Make slime together to enjoy.
- Paint kindness rocks with messages and deliver in random places spreading joy.
- Make your own tie-dyed shirt or paint designs on shirts.
While many activities can be done at home, there are other options that are low cost to do within the state as well. It is always fun to visit a local attraction or plan a day trip to the zoo, museum, science center, or state park. Colorado offers complimentary admission on regular dates throughout the season, every year on a variety of normally ticketed attractions. Also check out your local library for the free passes they have to activities.
Whether it be a large family vacation, a daytime adventure, or a simple at home activity, enjoy the time together as a family making memories. Soak up the sun, enjoy some fun, and discover a world of budget friendly opportunities that are available every day.
