Summer break is here, and keeping kids entertained doesn’t have to break the bank. With a little creativity and planning, you can fill the days with exciting activities and things you want to do that keep kids engaged, active, and smiling all summer long. All without spending a fortune!
Whether you’re looking for fun summer activities at home, outdoor summer adventures, or family-friendly activities that are manageable and won’t stretch your budget, there are plenty of fun ideas for summer that will make this season unforgettable.
Here are some affordable and exciting ways to create lasting memories with your family this summer.
DIY Summer Camp at Home are Just as Good
Who says you need an expensive summer camp to give kids an unforgettable experience? Creating your own DIY summer camp at home is not only inexpensive, but it also allows you to tailor activities to your children’s interests while keeping the summer structured and fun. With a little planning, you can turn ordinary days into a season full of adventure, learning, and creativity—all from the comfort of home.
Plan DIY Summer Camp Activities for Kids that Mix Learning and Fun
A DIY summer camp can be as effortless or as detailed as you want. There’s no limit! The key is to organize engaging activities that keep kids excited and looking forward to each day. Here are some fun summer plans that will keep them engaged while having a blast!
Science Week
A wide range of activities in the science world can spark the curiosity of your little one. Keep your kids engaged by encourage hands-on learning with science experiments that feel like play. Here are a few things you might want to try out:
- DIY Volcanoes: Use baking soda, vinegar, and a little food coloring to create an erupting volcano. This is a fun way to introduce kids to chemical reactions.
- Nature Experiments: Take a walk outside and collect leaves, rocks, or flowers. Study them under a magnifying glass, learn about different species, or press flowers to make art. Who knows along the way you might make new friends!
- Stargazing: Set up blankets in the backyard at night and look up at the stars. Use a stargazing app or a sky map to identify constellations and planets.
ART WEEK
Kids of all ages love art! If you need a break, kids don’t mind and actually love the opportunity to make a little art. So go ahead and pull out the colored pencils and paper. Encourage your art student in the making with some hands-on projects that allow them to express themselves.
- Painting: Set up an outdoor art station with large paper or canvas, and let kids go wild with paintbrushes, sponges, or even their hands.
- Drawing: Pull out the colored pencils and crayons. Print out some coloring sheets, or even a blank paper. They can create their own art- while you take that much needed break.
- Tie-Dye: Buy inexpensive white T-shirts, socks, or pillowcases, and let kids create their own vibrant patterns with fabric dye.
Sidewalk Chalk Murals: Turn the driveway or sidewalk into a giant canvas. Challenge kids to draw their favorite animals, create a giant hopscotch game, or illustrate a story scene.
Cooking Week
If you are wondering how to keep your preschooler or kindergarteners busy, introduce them to the joy of cooking with easy, fun recipes. A great way to spend the day
- Kid-Friendly Recipes: Let them take the lead on making sandwiches, fruit kabobs, or homemade pizza with easy toppings.
- Baking Challenges: Set up a bake-off where kids decorate cookies, cupcakes, or even muffins. Let them get creative with sprinkles and icing!
- No-Bake Treats: Keep the kitchen cool by making easy no-bake recipes like yogurt parfaits, energy bites, or frozen fruit pops.
Nature Week
Get outdoors and explore the natural world through hands-on activities or a walk in the park. Kids can enjoy the time with some fun in the sun while learning.
- Gardening: Let kids plant their own flowers, herbs, or vegetables in small pots or a backyard garden. Watching something grow is a great way to teach responsibility.
- Leaf Rubbings: Spend the afternoon collecting different leaves in your backyard or a nearby park. Then place them under paper, and use crayons to create beautiful leaf rubbings that highlight textures and patterns.
- Scavenger Hunts: Make a list of things to find—like a pinecone, a bird’s feather, or a certain color flower—and let kids explore the yard or a local park to check off each item.
A DIY summer camp is a great way to create structure, plan activities, and make memories for the best summer – without the high cost of traditional programs or a expensive vacation. Plus, kids love having a schedule filled with fun!
Outdoor Summer Fun Activities That Get Kids Moving (relay races, obstacle courses)
When kids have energy to burn, outdoor activities are the perfect way to keep them active while enjoying the sunshine. Running, jumping, and creating are all part of the excitement, and the best part? With just a few supplies, you can turn any backyard or park into a fun-filled adventure zone.
Here are some fun ideas for summer that will keep kids moving and engaged:
Relay Races & Obstacle Courses
Nothing gets kids moving like a little friendly competition! Whether you set up a full obstacle course or keep it easy with classic relay races, these activities encourage teamwork, coordination, and a whole lot of giggles.
- Classic Relay Races: Use a baton, bean bag, or even a stuffed animal as the hand-off item. Make it extra fun by incorporating different ways to move—hopping, skipping, or even balancing an object on their heads!
- Backyard Obstacle Course: Use pool noodles, cones, and jump ropes to create a fun and challenging course. Have kids crawl under tables, jump over hurdles, or balance on a line of tape.
- Water Balloon Relay: Combine movement with a refreshing splash! Each player carries a water balloon to the finish line—without dropping it. If it bursts, they have to start over!
Crafting & Hands-On Projects
For kids who love to get creative, crafting is the perfect way to mix fun with a little artistic expression. Plus, it’s an ideal way to keep them entertained during quieter moments or when you want to enjoy some downtime.
- Build-Your-Own Kites: Using paper, string, and lightweight sticks, kids can create and decorate their own kites—then test them out on a breezy day.
- Homemade Puppet Theater: This can be a great storytelling adventure where kids can write and illustrate their own stories. So spend a day making handmade puppets and putting on a show!
These fun ideas for summer give kids a chance to express their creativity while making something they can use again and again!
Backyard Water Fun Ideas
When the sun is blazing, nothing beats fun and cheap ways to cool off at your house. It’s the best way to create memories for your kids favorite summer! And the best part is you don’t need an expensive summer vacation, pool or a water park membership to help kids stay cool—all it takes is a few creative activities to turn your house into a mini water park!
Fun and Cheap Ways to Cool off At Your House
These fun ideas for summer will keep kids laughing, splashing, and staying refreshed, all without a big price tag.
Sprinkler Games
The simplest way to add excitement to a hot summer day is with a sprinkler! Turn on the hose, set up a sprinkler attachment, and let the kids run wild. Check out this list to take it up a notch create some cool memories this summer:
- Sprinkler Limbo: Hold a pool noodle or broomstick and see how low kids can go while getting splashed!
- Freeze Dance Splash: Play music while kids dance around the sprinkler. When the music stops, they have to freeze—if they move, they get an extra spray!
- Jump Rope Over the Spray: Place the sprinkler in the middle and have kids try to jump over the water streams while jumping rope.
DIY Slip N Slide
ADIY slip-and-slideis an easy way to turn your yard into a water adventure zone. You just need a long sheet of plastic (a cheap tarp works), a garden hose, and a little bit of dish soap for extra slipperiness.
- Obstacle Slip-and-Slide: Set up pool noodles, cones, or soft objects along the slide to make it more challenging.
- Slip-and-Slide Races: See who can slide the farthest or reach a target first—extra fun when wearing silly costumes or floaties!
Great for: Beating the heat without a pricey pool membership.
Water Balloon Fights & Challenges
Classic summertime fun always includes a typical old-fashioned water balloon fight. But instead of just throwing them, try mixing in some friendly competition!
- Water Balloon Tag: If you’re hit with a balloon, you’re “it!”
- Target Practice: Set up buckets or hula hoops as targets and see who can make the most accurate throws.
- Hot Potato Splash: Kids pass a water balloon while music plays—whoever is holding it when the music stops has to pop it over their head!
Kiddie Pool Treasure Hunts
Even a small kiddie pool can turn into a full-blown adventure.
- Sink or Float Science Game: Drop different objects into the pool and have kids guess whether they’ll sink or float.
- Underwater Treasure Hunt: Toss in waterproof toys, coins, or glow sticks and let kids dive in to find them.
- Bubble Pool Party: Add bubbles and let kids play with waterproof toys for a sensory-filled experience.
With these fun ideas for summer, kids can beat the heat right in their own backyard. It’s all about making the most of what you have, such as turning water activities into summer fun that kids will remember long after their summer vacation ends!
Explore Local Parks & Trails
Outdoor summer adventures don’t have to cost a thing! One of the easiest ways to enjoy the season is by heading outside and exploring the parks, trails, and natural spaces in your community. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful walk, a bit of exercise, or a full day of adventure, nature is full of fun ideas for summer that are completely free.
Ideas for Fun Activities for Families in Nature
Hiking and Scavenger Hunts
Hiking isn’t just about getting from point A to point B—it’s an adventure waiting to happen!
- Make it exciting with ascavenger hunt. Create a list of activities like spotting a bird’s nest, finding a cool-shaped rock, or identifying different types of leaves.
- Bring a magnifying glass and let kids examine bugs, tree bark, or even animal tracks along the way.
- Challenge kids to take turns leading the way, teaching them confidence and decision-making skills.
Birdwatching and Nature Journaling
Encourage kids to slow down and observe the world around them. This is also a great way to develop patience and curiosity about nature.
- Bring a small notebook for nature journaling and let kids draw or write about the birds, bugs, or plants they see.
- Pack a pair of binoculars to get a closer look at birds, squirrels, or even deer.
- If kids are interested, use a simple guidebook or app to identify different bird species and learn fun facts about them.
Bike Rides on Scenic Trails
A family bike ride is a fun way to explore new areas, stay active, and even meet friends along the way.
- Look for bike-friendly trails at local parks or nature preserves. Many have paths designed specifically for families and beginners.
- Stop along the way for a picnic, a game of tag, or just to enjoy the view.
- Turn it into an adventure by setting a destination—like a go berry picking farm, a playground, or an ice cream stand!
Exploring parks and trails isn’t just about fresh air and exercise—it’s about learning a new appreciation for the outdoors, building lasting memories, and discovering new favorite spots in your community. Whether you’re hiking, biking, or birdwatching, nature offers endless fun ideas for summer that are free, exciting, and perfect for families looking for adventure!
Perfect for: Families who love fresh air and adventure.
Free Fun Summer Activities for Kids that Include the Outdoors: Community Events & Festivals
A great idea for summer is taking advantage of all the free events happening in your community. From outdoor festivals to family-friendly markets, there are plenty of summer activity ideas that don’t cost a thing but still bring excitement, entertainment, and a chance to connect with others. Whether you’re looking for a fun weekend plan or just something spontaneous, visit a local event for a mix of things to do.
Check your Local City Calendar for Fun Things for Kids in the Community
Summer is the perfect time to explore all the free and exciting events happening right in your community. Many cities offer some of the top summer activities for families, from outdoor movie nights and street fairs to farmers’ markets and kid-friendly concerts. Checking your local city calendar is a great way to find hidden gems and plan fun outings without spending a fortune.
Outdoor Movie Nights
Nothing beats watching a movie under the stars! Many towns host a movie marathon in local parks, giving families a chance to relax with blankets and popcorn while enjoying a classic or new family favorite.
- Bring a picnic basket with snacks—don’t forget the marshmallow treats for an extra special touch!
- Arrive early to grab a optimal spot and let the kids play before the movie starts.
- Some movie nights even include pre-show entertainment like live music or kids’ activities.
Farmers’ Markets with Kid-Friendly Booths
A trip to the farmers’ market isn’t just about fresh produce—it’s an opportunity to teach the kids about where food comes from and support local vendors. Many markets also feature fun extras like:
- Craft booths where kids can create their own art
- Live music and street performances
- Food trucks with kid-friendly treats
Local fairs often include petting zoos, small carnival rides, and games—making them a great, low-cost alternative to a day camp or amusement park visit.
Music and Arts Festivals
Community festivals are a great way to know that kids will experience new cultures, creative performances, and interactive activities. Look for:
- Street performances with magicians, jugglers, or puppeteers
- Art stations where kids can paint, draw, or make crafts
- Kid-friendly dance and music performances to keep them entertained
Take a Mini Adventure
While big vacations may not always be possible, short road trips to nearby towns or parks can be just as exciting. Visit local attractions like historic sites, splash pads, or hiking trails for a quick and inexpensive getaway.
With so many free community events and activities, there’s no shortage of fun ideas for summer that bring families together without spending a fortune. Whether you’re enjoying an outdoor movie, dancing at a festival, or exploring new places on aroad trip, these experiences helpcreate a family full of memories while keeping kids entertained all season long!
Why it’s great: A mix of entertainment and social fun—at little to no cost!
Libraries Offer Fun Things For Families
Libraries are a treasure trove of fun ideas for summer, offering free programs that keep kids learning and entertainedthroughout the summer. From storytime sessions and STEM workshops to creative writing challenges, there are plenty of activities and ideas for children of all ages. Many libraries also host special events like puppet shows, craft days, and reading competitions, making them a perfect spot for family-friendly fun.
Free Summer Reading Programs at Local Libraries
Local libraries are packed with free summer programs that keep kids engaged and learning, even when school is out. Many offer:
- Storytime sessions for younger children, includingnurseryrhymes and interactive reading
- Summer reading challenges with small prizes to encourage kids to pick up more books
- STEM activities and creative writing workshops to help kidscreate a family book or write and illustrate their own short stories
Backyard Camping & Stargazing at Your House
A full camping trip isn’t always possible, but that doesn’t mean you have to miss out on the adventure. Backyard camping brings all the excitement of sleeping under the stars—without the hassle of packing up the car or driving for hours. It’s one of the best fun ideas for summer, offering kids a chance to experience the magic of nature right at your house while staying close to home.
Experience Summer Fun Without Leaving Home
Setting up a backyard campsite is easier than you think. A simple tent, sleeping bags, and a few cozy blankets are all you need to transform your yard into an outdoor escape. To make it extra special, try adding:
- Twinkling string lights or lanterns for a magical nighttime glow
- A cozy blanket fort if you don’t have a tent
- Soft pillows and sleeping bags for comfort under the stars
Tell Campfire Stories & Enjoy Classic Treats
A camping experience wouldn’t be complete without some classic traditions!
- Know that the kids will love gathering around (or pretending to gather around) a fire to share spooky or silly stories. Even a simple flashlight under a blanket can create the perfect storytelling atmosphere.
- No camping trip—backyard or not—is complete without s’mores! If an open fire isn’t an option, make them using the oven or a microwave for a gooey, delicious treat.
- Play classic campfire games like “Would You Rather” or “20 Questions” to keep the fun going.
Learn About Constellations & the Night Sky
A night spent under the stars is a perfect chance to introduce kids to astronomy.
- Lay out blankets and look for constellations, planets, or even shooting stars.
- Use a stargazing app to help know that the kids are identifying the right celestial objects.
- Teach them about myths and legends behind famous constellations to make the experience even more exciting.
The Perfect Summer Night
A backyard camping adventure is one of the best summer activities to keep kids entertained, encourage their imagination, and create lasting family memories. Plus, you can customize the experience with all the things you want—whether that’s glow-in-the-dark games, a midnight snack, or a cozy storytelling circle. With a little creativity, a simple backyard can become the ultimate summer escape!
Perfect for: Families who want the thrill of camping—without the long drive.
Make This Summer the Most Family Fun (and Affordable) Yet!
Summer is all about making memories, and the best experiences don’t have to come with a high price tag. Whether it’s exploring nature, learning an instrument, or finding creative ways to give back to the community, there are endless opportunities to keep kids engaged while having fun. The key is to plan ahead, mix in a variety of activities, and focus on the things you want—whether that’s adventure, creativity, or simply more quality time together. With a little imagination, this summer can be one of the best yet!
FAQ’s
Q: What are some fun summer activities for preschoolers?
A: There are tons of fun summer activities for preschoolers! You can set up a water play station in your backyard, go on nature walks, or even have a mini art day with finger painting. Just keep it simple and let them explore!
Q: Are there any fun summer activities for kids in kindergarten?
A: Absolutely! Kindergarten kids love activities like building forts, scavenger hunts, or making a music playlist to dance to. You can also encourage them to help with gardening or cooking simple recipes.
Q: How can I incorporate learning into summer activities for kids?
A: Learning can be super fun in the summer! You can set up a reading corner where they can read or you can read to them. Try science experiments with household items, or have them write a summer journal about the things they want to do!
Q: What are some outdoor fun summer activities for kids?
A: Outdoor activities are the best! You can go biking, have a picnic in the park, or play sports like soccer or frisbee. Water balloon fights and backyard camping are also huge hits!
Q: How do I plan a fun summer day for my kids?
A: Planning a fun summer day is all about mixing activities! Start with a morning craft session, then head out for a fun adventure like a zoo trip or beach day. End the day with a movie night and popcorn!
Q: What are some creative summer activities for kids?
A: Get those creative juices flowing with activities like tie-dye t-shirts, making friendship bracelets, or even starting a summer scrapbook. Let their imaginations run wild!
Q: Can I get my kids involved in the kitchen during summer?
A: Definitely! Kids love to help in the kitchen. You can have them assist in making their favorite snacks, bake cookies, or even try out new recipes together. It’s a great way to bond and learn!
Q: What are some fun summer activities that require minimal preparation?
A: If you’re looking for low-prep activities, consider things like playing board games, going for evening walks, or just having a family movie night. Sometimes the simplest things are the most enjoyable!
Q: How can I keep my kids active during the summer?
A: Keeping kids active can be fun! Organize obstacle courses, go swimming, or set up a treasure hunt. You can also encourage them to join local sports teams or classes for some extra activity!
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