Summer Boredom Busters

Today is the first day of summer vacation for my son...and for many other kids around the country too! Don't you just love summer vacation? It's so wonderful to have the chance to sleep in (in theory) and just enjoy more time with your littles! But with all this free time comes the inevitable 'I'm bored!'.

Today, I'm sharing a list of summer activities that are sure to make this summer the best summer ever! Most of them that you can even do right in your own backyard, without breaking the bank! Check it out:

• Have a Picnic. Nothing can make summer meals more fun than packing them up for a picnic! It doesn't have to be fancy- even pb&j is more exciting when eaten outside!
• Backyard Scavenger Hunt. Create a fun scavenger/nature hunt for your kids to enjoy! Combine easy/normal outdoor items like leaves, rocks, etc with more creative options that inspire your kids to use their imaginations and give it more thought.
• Free Movies? Some theaters offer free movie showings during the summer months (or beyond). These movies are typically ones that have already been released to DVD, but this can still be a really fun way to get out of the house and do something a little different! Check with your local theaters to see if they offer anything like this!
• Paint with Bubbles. Check out this fun post for instructions.
• Make A Volcano. My kid loves science experiments, as did I as a kid. All it takes is a little baking soda and a little vinegar to do this fun experiment! You can also search for more easy kitchen science experiments to try too!
• Have a water fight. Buy some inexpensive water guns, water balloons, etc and have a ball! You'll cool down and make a memory!
• Visit the Library. Many libraries have events for kids throughout the year- like movies or story times, even classes! Visit the website to your local library to see what free/cheap events they have scheduled!
• Vacation Bible School. VBS was always a highlight of my summer. Fun lessons, games and treats...and absolutely free! Check out your local churches to find a VBS that fits your needs!
• Make A Movie. You don't have to have a fancy video camera to create a fun movie! Use your smartphone and let your kids write, star in and produce their own movies!!
• Tie Dye. Making matching tees for the family or liven up your pillow cases. Tie Dye kits can usually be found at craft stores for as low as $5 or so!
• Have A Lemonade Stand. This is not only super fun way to spend a day, it's also a great way to teach kids about money!!
• Build a Fort. Rainy days keeping you inside? (Believe me, I feel your pain!) Fort can bring the outdoor fun inside!
• Make Your Own Play Dough. Check out this fun recipe for a Gluten Free Aromatherapy Dough.
• Plant a Garden. Not only is this a great outdoor activity, but it also helps teach kids to make great food choices too! And it will hopefully save you some money on produce!
• Visit the Farmer's Market. Can't plant your own garden? Take a trip to your local farmer's market instead.
• Go Yard Sale-ing. At just 8 years old, my son has already developed an appreciation for yard sales. Give the kids each a few dollars and let them see what kind of treasure they can find!
• Have a Movie Marathon Day. This is another one for those rainy days... pick a favorite movies series or category and make a day of it...and get creative with it! Have a superhero movie day and dress as your favorite! Have a Disney only day and start off the morning wit Mickey Mouse pancakes! Have fun with it to help those gloomy days shine brighter.
• Create An Obstacle Course. This can be as simple or as complicated as you wish...you know your kids best! You can find inexpensive supplies like hula hoops at your local Dollar Tree. Lay out a jump rope as a 'tight rope/balancing beam', use pillow cases for a sack race experience... it doesn't have to be fancy, just be enthusiastic about it and encourage kids to use their imaginations with it and have fun.

These are just a few ideas to get you started, but there are many great ways to beat the summer boredom! How will you be spending your summer days? What would you add to this list?