
1. Plan a Picnic: Pack a delicious lunch and head to a local park or beach for a picnic. Let the kids help choose and prepare the food, and don't forget to bring games and activities to keep them entertained. It's a great way to enjoy the outdoors and have quality family time. We love to hit the beach for picnics and bring Spike Ball. You can totally just do this in your own yard or neighborhood, too!
2. Create a Backyard Water Park: Set up a mini water park in your backyard with sprinklers, water balloons, a slip 'n slide, and a kiddie pool. Let the kids cool off and have a blast while staying close to home. You can even have water-themed contests or obstacle courses for added fun. One of the things my boys loved when they were younger was a bike wash (like a car wash, but for bikes)! Invite friends over and have some water fun.
3. Create an Outdoor Game: I saw this life-size Angry Birds idea on Pinterest, and my 11-year-old can’t wait to try it out this summer. We plan to decorate the boxes and balls, and invite friends over for an Angry Birds War. Bonus: you can find the supplies for super cheap at Dollar Tree and Five Below.
4. Explore Nature with Scavenger Hunts: Organize nature scavenger hunts where kids search for specific items like leaves, rocks, or different types of flowers. You can create a checklist or provide them with a map to follow. It's a great way to engage their curiosity and teach them about the natural world. Hop on Pinterest, and there are loads of these available for free.
5. Build a Fort or Tent: Encourage your kids' creativity by building a fort or tent indoors or outdoors. Use blankets, sheets, and furniture to construct the structure. Let them decorate it with pillows, fairy lights, and their favorite toys. It becomes their hideout for imaginative play or a cozy reading nook. This is extra great for rainy days or when it’s just too hot to be outside. We’ve been known to create a fort or ten outside, too!
Make the most of this hot, Jacksonville summer with your kids by engaging in these exciting and memorable activities. From outdoor adventures to creative indoor projects, there's something for everyone. Embrace the warmth and joy of the season while making precious memories that your children will cherish for a lifetime. And if you try the Angry Birds thing, you have to send me pictures!