When schools get out for the summer, it’s time for parents to get creative with some fun and inexpensive ways to keep kids busy. Because kids are naturally creative and inquisitive, all you need are some basic ideas, which they can take and run with as they incorporate their own preferences into the projects.

Games of All Sorts

There are countless possibilities for fun games that will not only entertain your kids, but also help keep their minds engaged during the summer months. Of course, board and card games are a classic option if you have several kids in a similar age range, and they help kids cooperate in playing together. For an independent option, online puzzle games are a great choice because they develop problem solving skills as kids learn strategies for doing better each time they play.

Biking Challenge

If your kids know how to ride a bicycle, head out on family bike rides on a regular basis throughout the summer. Each time you go out, have the kids map the route and measure how long it was so they can record it in their bike logs. Give them a role in planning their routes to go for longer distances and over new terrain.

Outdoor Obstacle Course

It’s a shame to waste beautiful outdoor weather during the summer months, so encourage your kids to go outside and use their creativity to make an obstacle course. Set them up with some basic supplies like sporting goods, ropes, old sheets or tarps, and other safe tools and objects. Once they’ve set up an obstacle course, have them time themselves going through it and try to beat their best time.

Make-Your-Own Popsicle

Popsicles are classic summer treats, but store-bought icy treats are often packed with sugar and come in the same old flavors that your child may be tired of. Instead, set up an activity for kids to make their own popsicles one day and enjoy them as treats throughout the rest of the week. You can either make them in a popsicle tray or in plastic cups with wooden sticks. Possible ingredients include fruit juice, blended fresh fruit smoothies, peanut butter, yogurt, and chunks of fruit. Have kids layer their picks and freeze the results.

Build Fairy Houses

Kids can be incredibly creative with the most basic materials, so set them loose outside with the challenge of making a small fairy house with whatever they find. If your yard doesn’t have much in the way of sticks, leaves, and other items, try the challenge at a park or as a break alongside a hiking trail.

These activities are just a few that your family can try this summer. The most important thing when planning is to keep your children’s interests in mind and tailor the activities to what they enjoy doing. That way, they’ll be more engaged and more likely to ask to do the activity again throughout the summer. Have fun!

Authors Bio-
Holly Watson is a stay-at-home mom, former financial adviser, and baking enthusiast. She is currently obsessing over perfecting her ‘Mimosa’ cupcakes. She blogs on behalf of Sears and other prestigious brands she uses.