Every child who is old enough to be in school looks forward to one time of year, summer! Summer vacation is a time for our kids to take a break from school and enjoy the warm weather, but for parents, it can be a challenge to think of ways to entertain them all day, every day for a couple of months straight. While it can seem overwhelming, this is a time of year that can be spent creating lasting memories with your family, so we have put together a couple of activities that everyone can enjoy.

Make your own popsicles

With how hot it is outside, everyone is probably craving a cool sweet treat after a long day. DIY popsicles can become your new go-to because they are fun and they are easy to make. You can use whatever fruit you have in your fridge and all the family can pick their favorite options! Once everyone has selected their flavors, use popsicle molds like these and stick them in the freezer. They should be ready to go in a couple of hours.

Go on a hike

Check out the local trails you have nearby or make a trip to your nearest state park to enjoy an adventure for the whole family. If your children are on the younger side, we would suggest doing some research on easy trails that they can accomplish or packing a jogger stroller. Everyone will love being outdoors and taking in the scenery. Make sure you pack plenty of water and sunscreen and try to start early before the trails get too crowded and the temperature starts to rise.

Create a time capsule

This is a great way to let everyone in your family contribute items and memories they do not want to forget. Things to include would be family photos, magazines, newspaper clippings, and even letters to your future selves. Whether you bury it in your backyard or just keep it tucked away somewhere in the house, as a family, decide when you will open it. Everyone will look forward to the day you reveal what was included and give everyone a picture of your past.

Take up a new hobby

With all the free time your children have during the summer, this is a great time for them to experiment with finding new things they love to do. Give them some options on things to try, maybe an instrument, crocheting, jumping rope, etc. If your kids find something they love to do, they will always have an activity to go to when you are busy.

Take a road trip

If this is possible for you and your family, we highly recommend it! Rent an RV and plan a week away on the road. If you live by the coast try to go up and down it, making stops along the way for everyone to enjoy the ocean waves. You can also explore a national park, camping at night, and take in nature during the day. Your family will never forget the time spent together.

Start a garden

Taking care of something and watching it grow is a great way to give your children some responsibilities. Let them pick their favorite plant, whether it be some flowers, ferns, or a hardy succulent, potting them together can be a lot of fun. If you would like to get more creative, you can even paint the pots beforehand, that way everyone will know which plant is theirs. If you are going to paint first, we would suggest acrylic paints like these so that the designs last.