We are officially in the “dog days of summer”. Not only is this traditionally the hottest part of the year, it’s also the time when parents are anxious for their kids to go back to school. After all, it’s been about two months since school got out and the kids are getting “bored” with the same old summer activities. Rest assured, you’ve only got about a month left to go!
In the mean time, here are 12 ideas you may not have thought of this summer…
1. Explore your city
Or the closest big city to you. Take an expedition to some place that you haven’t been yet.
2. Volunteer somewhere
Check out Doing Good Together for ways to volunteer with your kids.
3. Make movies
Have your kids write a script, recruit their friends as actors, rehearse, and make a movie. Not only is it time consuming, it is also fun and something that you will enjoy watching when your kids get older!
4. Car wash
Sure everyone does lemonade stands but what about a car wash for the neighbors? A great way to have some fun, stay cool, and make money!
5. Write a book
Grab a pen and some paper and get to writing! Craft stores sell kits for making your own hardcover books. You can also have your kids write and draw on basic paper then scan the pages and print them through an online printing company.
6. Catch up on math
We hear so much about reading over the summer but what about lost math skills? Plenty of stores sell math workbooks and flash cards or just make up a few math problems of your own for your kids to practice.
7. Organize rooms and go through old toys/clothes
Your kids are entering a new grade soon. Time to get rid of the stuff they’ve outgrown. Have your kids help you determine what to keep and what goes.
8. Practice photography
It’s OK to give your kids the camera (just make sure you keep a close eye on them). Let them go around the house or outside and take photos of things that interest them. You’ll be amazed at what the world looks like from your kids’ eyes!
9. Fairs
This is the season for county and state fairs. Go ahead and have some fun.
10. Back to school shopping
Yup. Go shopping. As much as us parents hate it, most kids like it. You’ve got a few hours of “entertainment” when you take them shopping.
11. Get back on schedule
Your kids have been running amuck all summer. It’s time to settle down and gear up for back to school. Start thinking about going to bed at a reasonable time and waking up at one too.
12. Visit Grandma and Grandpa
When all else fails, send your kids to Grandma and Grandpa’s house for a few days!
What are you planning for this last month of summer?
