While kids may be glad to be let out of school for the summer, parents can hardly suppress the groan. While summer may consist of beach vacations and cartoons all day, keeping kids entertained during the summer is a tough task for parents, especially if they can’t afford expensive vacations and summer camps. But for those who don’t want their kids sitting in front of a computer or TV for their entire break, there are a number of activities you can do to continue teaching your kids that won’t cost you a fortune.
1. Make your own popsicle
This is an activity that children can do and enjoy their efforts every day. And maybe mom and dad can enjoy their fun too. Instead of buying boxes and boxes of popsicles and ice cream to help the kids cool off, you can show them how to make their own popsicle. Everyone can get their favorite flavors and making your own is healthier than store bought brands.
What do you need
- your favorite fruit like strawberries, grapes, watermelon
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- a splash of simple syrup
- popsicle tray and popsicle sticks
Just mix all the ingredients in a blender and pour into the popsicle trays. Let it freeze for 3-4 hours (have the kids play outside) then enjoy!
2. Easy to make sprinkler system
If you don’t have a sprinkler and can’t afford to buy one, you can easily make your own.
What you will need:
- a hose
- an empty two liter bottle
Start by finding a branch that is high enough for you and your children to run under. Then poke holes in the 2 empty two liters at the bottom. After that, tie the bottle to a rope and then tie it to the limb or where ever you selected. Then take your garden hose, attach it to the top of the bottle, and turn it on. Instant sprinkler to help keep kids cool, outside, and having fun. Mom and Dad should get involved too!
3. Homemade Slip ‘n Slide
Slip ‘n Slides is a pretty ubiquitous summer pastime. If you don’t want to pay store prices for one, you can make one at home.
What you will need:
- garbage bags
- hose
- dish soap
- Scotch tape
Start making your own slider by finding a long stretch of smooth area to place it on. Then be sure to get rid of any debris or rocks in the area. Those little things can really hurt. Then, tape the trash bags and stretch them across the area, you could even nail the bags to the ground to keep them secure. Turn on the hose to wet the slide and add some dishwashing liquid to make it slippery. Make sure there is some soft grass or an intertube at the end of the slide to prevent your child from tripping on something hard.
4. Sell lemonade and iced tea
There is nothing better in summer than a glass of cold lemonade. You can help inspire your child’s entrepreneurial spirit by teaching him the art of selling and profit. Find a corner with a lot of foot traffic and set up a small table with a bright and cheery sign. Then make some batches of sweet lemonade and iced tea for your kids to sell for less than a dollar. It teaches them classic business skills and maybe even wins a few bucks for movies or candy. That’s a win-win in every parent’s handbook.