10 Fun Things to Do With Your Kids This Summer
Looking for some fun outdoor activities for you and your family? Be sure to try these simple, imaginative, and fun activities!
By Kellye Carter Crocker
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John Granen
Swing in a Hammock
Snuggle close to your child, and sway the afternoon away. Look for pictures in the clouds and watch them change, or read books to each other.
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BananaStock/ Jupiter
Do Yard Work Together
Toddlers can help pull weeds and sprinkle the flowers with a tiny watering can. Have a kid-size rake and a bubble-blowing lawn mower on hand.
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Fancy Photography/Veer
Play Dress-Up
Collect funny hats, gloves, purses, flowing gowns, and "superhero capes" at a garage sale or thrift store. Slip into your new finery, and have a make-believe garden party, Spider-Man adventure, or masquerade ball.
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Veer
Build a Secret Fort
Drape old sheets over lower tree limbs and clotheslines. Eat dinner there. Stay up chasing fireflies and listening to "night sounds."
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Jill Chen/ istock
Hold a Car Wash
Park your car in the driveway and let your child give it a good scrub with a pot of water and sponge or with the garden hose. Get the whole family involved for added fun!
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Fancy Photography/Veer
Go on a Bug Safari
Dig for worms, scout for lizards, and hunt for frogs and tadpoles. Marvel at an ant carrying an oversize crumb.
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Bob Stefko
Befriend a Firefighter
Bake cookies (or pick up some ice pops), and deliver them to your local fire station. The firefighters will appreciate the surprise -- and your child will meet some heroes, see those awesome trucks up close, and learn a lesson about giving to others.
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Tara Donne
Chalk it Up
Everyone loves sidewalk chalk. Use the glow-in-the-dark kind so you and your child can glimpse your artwork from the window at bedtime.
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Getty
Make Beautiful Music
Spread a blanket in the backyard for a stage. Ask preschoolers to create (and collect) "tickets" to the big event. Invite kids to bring their instruments and perform -- even your littlest musicians can join in using pots, wooden spoons, and shakers. Set up lawn chairs for the audience, and cheer your little stars.
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Fancy Photography/Veer
Dance in the Rain
Surprise your kids by taking them outside during a gentle summer shower. Dance around in swimsuits, catch raindrops in your mouth, and jump in all the puddles.
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Fancy Photography/Veer
For More Outdoor Family Fun
Check out these great resources for more ideas and inspiration:
- Cheap Summer Fun
- Raise Nature-Loving Kids
- Family Fun: Apple Picking Adventure
- 12 Patriotic Things to Do This Summer
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