30 Blogs Detailing Activities for Kids to Do Over Summer Break

by Michelle LaRowe
Editor in Chief

With summer break upon us, it’s time to start planning some activities to keep the kids occupied.  The last thing you want to hear is a recurring, “I’m bored!” all summer long. No matter how old your kids are, you should be able to find games, crafts, outings and camps that they can do to stay busy.  Even if your budget is tight, there are ideas for low cost things to do this summer. These 30 blog posts are full of activities you can do with your kids this summer, so start compiling your favorites and then put together a bucket list of activities to do over the summer.

Games

Rain or shine, there are many activities you can do with your kids this summer that will keep them active and engaged instead of bored and listless. The key to keeping the kids busy is planning. As much as kids may say they want a break from the rigid structure of their school days, the truth is that most kids do better when they have some sort of daily routine. Read the following six blog posts for some ideas for different games the kids can play.

• Game Idea: Slip ‘N’ Slide ‘N’ Grab
• Kids’ Summer
• 5 Amazing Outdoor Summer Activities and Games for Kids
• Outdoor and Indoor Kids Summer Games
• Summer Ideas for Children
• Rain, Rain Go Away: Indoor Home Activities and Games to Keep Your Kids Active and Happy

Crafts

At least once a week during the summer you should get your kids to make something and be creative. Bring out the craft supplies and print off some ideas for various projects the kids can do.  These projects don’t have to cost a lot, and some may use items you already own.  Take a look at these six blog entries to get some craft ideas for the kids.

• Gearing Up for a Summer of Making, Connecting and Learning by Doing
• Brooke Wheeler: Kids Craft Idea: Wacky Sacks
• DIY: Summer Arts and Craft Workshop
• Easy Summer Crafts for Kids
• Let’s Make Something Fun—Kiwi Crate—Crafts for Kids
• Summer Postcard Craft for Kids

Outings

Summer is a great time to get outdoors or visit new places together. Take this opportunity with the kids to explore areas you haven’t been to before. Go to the zoo and have a picnic lunch, or to the water park to cool off and burn some energy.  Take a look at these six blog posts for more ideas on summer activities.

• How to Successfully Combine Summer Fun and Family Time with Technology
• Fun Stuff to do with Your Kids in the Summer
• 20 Favorite Must-Do Activities for Summer
• Ten Activities to Do This Summer to Have Fun and Promote Learning
• Summer Activities for Kids—Magic School Bus Weather Lab
• Fun Activities for Kids to Do During the School Holidays

Camps

Whether you are looking for day camps or overnight camps, it’s important to find a camp that caters to your child’s interests and that he’s excited about attending. For inexpensive day camps, check out vacation bible camps at local churches or the YMCA.  For camps offered in the area, you can check with your school. Peruse through the next six blog articles for more tips about different camps.

• Seven Ways Summer Camp Encourages Self Realization
• Send Your Kids to Cook’s Culinary Summer Camp
• Summer Day Camps for Kids Around Ann Arbor
• Y Summer Camp Serves Community Kids
• Kids Who Go to Summer Camp vs. Kids who Don’t
• How to Find a Summer Camp You Kids will be Crazy About

Budget Friendly Options             

Many communities offer low-cost or free activities for kids and their families to attend during the summer. It’s also a great time to go to the neighborhood pool or splash pad, or visit a nearby park. If you live near a city, many museums will have free admission days where you can get out of the heat and enjoy looking around. For more inspiration, check out these six blog posts.

• How to Keep the Kids Entertained This Summer on a Budget~ 5 Simple Things You Can Do
• Summer Bucket List to do With Your Family
• Summer Fun: 5 Things Every Mom Needs to Get Their Kids for Summer
• Budget Friendly Fun!
• 2013 Summer Survival Calendar is Here!
• Best Things to Do with Kids for FREE!