School is out, or will be soon, and summer with kids can be both challenging and rewarding! I know that there are days of crazy chaos ahead, but we are tired and need a break from the hustle and bustle. Even though my kids do not sleep in, I want to be woken up with their giggles instead of an alarm clock. I want us all to have the ability to travel, to visit museums and water parks, and to have special days and make special memories. I am also ready for the school anxiety to go away for a few months because it takes such a toll on all of us.
I do believe, though, that summer with the kids home is something you truly have to be prepared for or you will self destruct. If you are used to having days without kids, how will the household run now that they are home all of the time?
I have collected a few tips and ideas to make this a GREAT summer with the kids! Put a little preparation into it, and you can minimize the chaos and maximize the memory making! If you want to add some fun and teach responsibility, check out these low maintenance pets.
35+ Tips, Tricks, and Ideas for an Awesome Summer with Kids
Here are some great ideas to make this summer awesome and easier!
Behavior Management
a little preparation goes a long way!
A simple stone jar might be all you need!
Easy to print and use screetime cards!
Good habits for sleep hygiene!
Chore cards are perfect for kids who need a visual checklist.
Here's another easy visual checklist printable!
Want kids to help clean but don't like hovering? Here's a way to encourage independence!
Fun Things for Kids to do this Summer
Teach your kids how to make something from your childhood - a Cootie Catcher (otherwise known as a Fortune Teller!) So much fun and a great way to bust boredom and anxiety!
great ideas in a printable bucket list!
Toddler Activities: Sensory Bag Using Glitter Glue and Body Wash (NOT Messy!!)
this is a great, clean activity for little ones!
pool noodle games!
This craft is great for older kids!
This flower pom pom wreath DIY craft tutorial is perfect for elementary age kids or younger kids with an adult's help!
Simple textured paint football craft for kids is easy and fun!
more great ideas for summer activities for kids!
Summer Educational Ideas to Keep them Learning!
this is a fun way to keep up with schedules and books read
perfect for summer word practice!
Screen time, yes, but this is educational and interactive!
how fun is a theme week?
Get outside!
A little work can last all summer with this DIY backyard splash pad!
Make an easy to set up backyard obstacle course!
cheap, easy, and a great way to cool off!
get outside and get your hands in the dirt
Geocaching is good family fun
Camping with kids is great, but backyard camping is easier and a better way to dip your toes into camping!
fun and pretty way to get outside!
simple instructions for a fun new rope swing
nothing like a good old fashioned game like kick the can!
fun recipe for sidewalk paint
Cooking with Kids
here is some advice on how to get cooking with kids!
parent tested recipes that kids can help with!
super cute, no bake idea!
Fun Cooking Activities for Even the Littlest Chefs!
add a little fruit to your traditional s'mores!
Road Trips with Kids
moms, here is how you can take the kids on a road trip alone!
get the kids involved with your traveling progress!
fun road trip ideas
original posting date: May 11, 2017. Updated: May 30, 2024
Scarlet
Wednesday 16th of May 2018
What a great list. My kids get out of school in just one week so we will try some of these fun summer activities!
Katelyn L Fagan
Wednesday 17th of May 2017
What a great roundup of ideas for the summer!! Thanks so much for sharing!