Now that we’re a few weeks into summer are your kids struggling with boredom? Are you and your kids driving each other crazy? Are you wishing they were in camp, but don’t want to spend the money? Or do you have younger ones who aren’t eligible for camp yet? Are you having trouble getting organized when you don’t have any where scheduled to be?
Personally (and perhaps selfishly), I didn’t want to drive each child to a different place every day. Since my youngest is just 2, he only qualified to go to a handful of places. They are signed up for a couple weeks of camp where they can go together. But there are many more weeks to go this summer and sadly, they’re already getting tired of the pool and beach.
To help ward off boredom, I came up with a few ideas and put them in a weekly themed schedule to make planning easy. You can do a week of Summer Camp at home, and all of these activities are inexpensive or free! For more fun, have some friends join you! Print this out for a quick reference.
Make Something MONDAY
This is a chance to attempt a new recipe, craft together, or just make something in general. I love the 5 minute ice cream idea from Miss Laura’s Kitchen! It’s perfect and refreshing for summer, not to mention the fact that you probably already have everything you’ll need to make it. Or perhaps a summer craft would be fun. For kids a bit older, try homemade popsicles or make friendship bracelets.
Take a Trip TUESDAY
Use this opportunity to get out of the house and go somewhere fun! It doesn’t need to be far away, or cost a bunch of money. Revisit Shannon’s awesome list of The Ultimate Summer Bucket List-100 Free and Cheap Things to do in Jacksonville. It’s packed full of free activities for all ages right here in Jacksonville. Kids Bowl Free and $1 Movies are always good choices if you’re looking to stay indoors. If you’re up for doing a bit more, then be sure to check out one of Kacey’s posts 10 Kid-Friendly Day Trips from Jax and 10 (more) Kid-Friendly Day Trips from Jax for some awesome ideas. She gives tips and insight on locations from St. Mary’s, Georgia down to St. Augustine and beyond that you and your children are sure to enjoy.
Wet & Wild WEDNESDAY
This is a chance to cool off from that summer heat. Whether you choose to stay home or go somewhere, getting wet is the key. We’re fortunate to be so close to the beach, splash parks, and even a water park. But when these things become monotonous, try something new. Making an easy DIY water slide like the one I found at Happy Hooligans is a cheap and perfect option for children (and adults) of all ages.
Thinking THURSDAY
This is a fun way to sneak in a little summer learning. Take a trip to the library or one of our city’s museums. For smaller kids, perhaps a visit to Discovery House or Hands On Children’s Museum. There’s also always the option of pulling off a science experiment. Check out my post on 5 Fun Science Experiements for a few ideas.
Fun FRIDAY
Here’s where you get to do something you’ve never done before. What sounds fun to you? Or maybe let the kids choose…what sounds fun to them? Stay home or venture out, it’s up to you. We will be tie dyeing shirts because I believe it will be fun for all of us. Simply Designing has some great tips for Tie Dyeing with Kids.
I hope these ideas help to get rid of the summertime blues. Which ones will you try?
