It is summer time, which means the kids are out of school and in the house. We know it can be hard to for parents to feel like they constantly have to entertain their kids, or keep them preoccupied during the summer. Here are a few things we hope might inspire you to make this summer count!
1. Family Field Day
If you have multiple children, have a field day with a healthy dose of competition and games, such as a water balloon toss. Also, try a marshmallow stacking contest. All you need is a ruler and Marshmallows. The ruler goes in their mouth and they see how many big marshmallows they can stack on the end of the ruler. Finally end the day with a chalk art competition!
2. Go to the Park
Parks are a great place to have a picnic, walk your dog, or just sit and soak up the sun. Bring a book to read, or a friend to talk to. If you have stale bread, bring that to feed the ducks. Try Roosevelt Wilson Park on Griffin street!
3. Get Active
Walk instead of drive to places that are nearby, such as shops or lunch places. Be sure to wear appropriate clothing and sunscreen, because it can get hot out there! There are plenty of shaded greenways for a bike ride. Check out this map for greenways in Davidson, NC. The pool is a great place to stay cool and get active as well!
4. Designate a Game Night
Afternoons and evenings are an important time for families, because many parents work during the day. It is important to use your family time wisely. If you and your family have one night that is free, pick a game to play. It does not have to be an expensive or elaborate board game, you can play cards, dominos, Pictionary or another interactive game.
5. Get Messy
Summer time is the time to get messy and fun. Have a shaving cream party- play on a tarp with shaving cream or soap and water and end the fun session with sprinkler time to wash off! For the younger kids, consider dyeing vanilla pudding with food dye to use for finger painting. Sensory activities like these are super nurturing for children.
6. Themed Dinners & Evenings
Again, evening and afternoons are an important part of the day for families, because it is typically a time when everyone is together and can talk about their day. Themed dinners can be fun, such as Mexican themed with salsa dancing and Latino radio playing the background. A murder mystery theme is always fun- everyone dresses up as a character from clue, which will make playing the board game feel more interactive. Get creative with what you and your family enjoys, (i.e. Harry Potter, Ratatouille, etc.)
7. Picnics
Picnics are all the rave this summer. Do not think you need to go by a picnic basket and fancy picnic blanket. Plan a picnic in the back yard with a sheet, or go to a local favorite spot or park.
8. Camp Out in the Back Yard
For such a small space, there sure is a lot to do in a backyard. Pitch a tent and star gaze, tell stories, make s’mores, or watch a movie outside if you have a projector. Enjoy the experience of camping without having to leave your home!
9. Nature Scavenger Hunt
I spy with my little eye a great idea! This is an activity that not only teaches your child about nature, but helps them become mindful without them knowing it. Get their attention focused on the now. Have them find things you have either placed, or know are in your back yard/park/outdoor area. Make a list and send them on the hunt! We found this one that emphasizes sensory integration.
10. Volunteer
Giving back to people makes us feel good, not only about ourselves, but about our community. Summer is a great time to give back to others. Perhaps you and your children can stock a few backpacks, filled with the necessary items to help children in need be prepared for the school year. Ada Jenkins is a local nonprofit center that provides health, education, and human services for those in need. Check out how you can help today!
There is a lot to do this summer in Davidson. Get messy, have fun and remember to implement self-care every day. If you struggle with self-care, we can help visit our website for more information.