Summer Activities for Children of All Ages

We recently discussed the challenges of summer for children in foster care or unstable homes. Summer break often results in isolation and a lack of routine for kids who rely on the transportation, daily lunches, and socialization that school provides. Single parents may also struggle to spend time with their children or provide childcare due to work hours. In addition, some families may not have disposable income to participate in many summer activities. Here we list some ideas for summer entertainment for kids of all ages that fit almost every budget.

Summer Activities for Kids

Age-appropriate summer activities can help children exercise, engage their creativity, and maintain a sense of routine when planned in advance. Take a look at these suggestions based on age group and consider adding some to your schedule!

Preschool

• Watercolor painting: For a cheap and easy activity, use paper (or light-colored rocks for extra fun) and mix water with either food coloring or various spices to create different colors. The non-toxic ingredients make it safe for little ones to paint with a brush or with their fingers.
• Read a bedtime story: In summer, it can be difficult to stick to bedtime. To help children prepare for bed at a regular hour, create a calming, comforting routine. A bedtime story helps a child settle and becomes a precious moment to share with their parents or guardians.
• Simple yard games: Young children have a lot of energy, so involving lots of movement in playtime can help them exercise and rest better at night. Bubbles, hula hoops, jump ropes, and other simple yard games are inexpensive options for outdoor playtime with adult supervision.

Elementary School

• Read a book together: Multichapter books provide an excellent opportunity for children to increase their reading skills and spend time bonding with their caretakers. Reading one chapter a day adds structure to the week and encourages kids to engage their imagination.
• Game nights: In addition to promoting a schedule, regular game nights increase fun in the household. For active children, games like charades, outdoor tag, tossing a ball, or a dance party allow them to expend their energy. Other children may enjoy puzzles and board games. Age-appropriate options include Yahtzee, Monopoly Jr., Go Fish, or Checkers.
• Baking and cooking: Young kids often enjoy hands-on experiences, and baking gives them the chance to learn practical skills and see the results of their hard work. Pick snacks, meals, or desserts they enjoy and invite them into the process.

Preteens

• Scavenger hunt: No matter where you live, scavenger hunts are a fun way for children to get to know or to re-explore their environment with fresh eyes. You can personalize a scavenger hunt in several different ways. One suggestion: start with a clue that leads to the next clue, and so on. Eventually, the final clue will lead them to a prize such as a treat or small gift.
• Play card games: A single deck of cards provides hours of entertainment. With so many games to choose from, your family can easily find a favorite and enjoy game nights together. Some popular age-appropriate options are Rummy, Old Maid, and Crazy Eights.
• Homemade Slip-n-Slide: If you have a tarp, dish soap, and water, you have everything you need for a homemade slip-n-slide. Lay the tarp out on a soft surface, usually grass, and douse it with the hose. Add a little dish soap to help make sliding easier (start with a little and add as needed). A running start is all you need to get the perfect slide! Just be sure to encourage safety first.

Teens

• Gym classes: Many gyms provide low-cost memberships, such as Planet Fitness. With a $10 monthly fee and countless locations, this option is great for teens who enjoy physical fitness. If your schedule and budget allow, consider going with your teen for some quality time.
• At-home spa day: You only need a few household items to recreate a relaxing spa experience. A nail file and/or clippers, lotion, washcloths soaked in warm water, and nail polish can help you imitate a classic manicure. For a pedicure, add a bucket or bathtub with a few inches of warm water to soak your feet in.
• Engage their interests: Bringing your children, especially teens, into activity planning shows that you respect them and care about their interests. By asking what makes them passionate, you stay connected with your teen and encourage more conversations about their thoughts and feelings.

All Ages

• Volunteer: Teaching children to give back in a fun way can be an excellent use of summertime. For example, if your children love animals, consider looking into volunteer opportunities at a local animal shelter.
• Public Parks: Public parks include a variety of activities for all ages. Playgrounds, pools, sports fields, and picnic areas offer something for everyone. Best of all, most activities are free of charge.
• Arrange meetups with friends: Children of all ages benefit immensely from social time with their peers. Summer can be isolating, so if possible, it helps to be intentional about creating regular opportunities to meet friends.
• Family dinner: Consistent dinners with the whole family encourage routine and strengthen relationships. No matter how the day goes, a meal guarantees time to slow down and connect. Food brings people together!

The summer months pose a challenge for some children and families, especially those who are vulnerable or at-risk. The above summer activities for kids can help fill the time and create special memories. Repeating them consistently (like game nights, reading books, family dinners, or spa days) provides a sense of routine and structure. Don’t be afraid to modify any of these suggestions or be creative with your own ideas.

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