Fun and Affordable Summer Activities for Kids

When it comes to keeping kids active and entertained this summer, it’s important to find activities that are fun and affordable. Whether you’re a working or stay-at-home parent, there are many ways to keep your little ones occupied in the months ahead.

Here are 15 of the favorite summer activities for kids recommended by Parents magazine:

1. Build a backyard obstacle course.
   Kids can construct an obstacle course in the backyard with hula hoops, jump ropes, sticks, stones, hoses and other household materials.

2. Camp in the yard.
   You can pitch a tent in the backyard and spend the night with your little ones under the stars. This free and fun summer activity also offers the amenities of home just steps away.

3. Hold a bike parade.
   Encourage your kids and their neighborhood friends to decorate their bikes with stickers, streamers, flags and more. Then, let them ride in a parade to show off their creations.

4. Plan an at-home picnic.
   You can host a picnic lunch on a table or blanket in the yard, or even in your living room or bedroom. Just prepare a basket with your favorite sandwiches and snacks, and enjoy.

5. Paint outdoors.
   Kids can use washable paint on construction paper, cardboard or blocks without making a mess inside the house. They can also use sidewalk chalk to create outdoor artwork for others to admire.

6. Tour a police or fire station.
   Is there an aspiring firefighter or police officer in your family? Summer is a great time to schedule a tour of your local station. Be sure to check in advance for any visiting hours or rules.

7. Choose a game night.
   Designate one evening per week to playing indoor or outdoor games with other families in your neighborhood. These could range from your favorite card and board games to soccer and softball.

8. Join community park activities.
   Many community parks offer free and low-cost summer camps and activities – including swimming, sports leagues, arts and crafts, music and nature programs. Contact your local park or visit the National Recreation and Park Association website for more information.

9. Collect and paint rocks.
   The next time you take a walk or hike with your children, ask them to collect rocks. At home, they can decorate them with paint, stickers, glue, markers and other art supplies.

10. Enroll in a craft class.
    Many local craft stores offer hands-on activities for kids like scrapbooking, box decorating, bead stringing and pottery for free or a nominal fee.

11. Swap toys.
    To organize a toy swap, invite friends and neighbors to come over with toys (in good condition) they no longer want. Then, let them draw numbers to see who gets to pick a "new" toy first.

12. Volunteer your time.
    Volunteering helps kids learn about compassion and responsibility, and also keeps them busy on summer days. Little ones can clean up parks, collect canned goods and more.

13. Arrange a scavenger hunt.
    Kids and adults alike enjoy the adventure of finding hidden objects using clever clues. Whether you do this activity indoors or outdoors, the goal is the same.

14. Read a story.
    Many libraries and local book shops host story times for young readers. This free summer activity helps kids escape the summer heat and develop a love of reading.

15. Watch a movie outdoors.
    On weekends, public parks across the country sponsor free outdoor family film nights. Visit your parks department website for information on screenings taking place near you.

Whether you’re spending time indoors or outdoors with your kids this summer, there are plenty of fun and engaging activities to enjoy together. Now that school is out of session, your family can embrace new activities and create lasting memories!

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Pacific Federal is a Zenith American company and subsidiary of Harbour Benefit Holdings, Inc.

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