School is out, and already kids are saying they are bored. The transition from the fairly structured environment of most schools to a less structured life at home can be difficult for many kids. Often, scheduling a more structured play activity such as classes, sports or weekly ‘field’ trips during the early part of summer helps in the transition. However, there should be periods of free time. Include time for climbing trees, reading, listening to music, chasing fireflies, gabfests or just watching the clouds.

Friends are a big part of summer activities. Having ideas for activities and games will make time with friends more enjoyable. There are a gazillion ideas out there for games and activities. Look online, visit the library, and even ask your mother for ideas!

I can think of at least 5 fun summer games for kids that are ‘hits’ with my kids and their friends.

1. Produce a play. This activity combines make-believe, dressing up and being a ham, all of which most kids enjoy. Producing a play can use the talents of an entire group of friends, so no one is left out. It can be informal for an afternoon, or a major production culminating in a performance some weekend night with parents invited for a backyard party.

2. Plan a scavenger hunt. A scavenger hunt can be fun in two ways. Older kids can have fun putting together a scavenger hunt for their younger siblings, while scavenger hunts for middle school and even high school-age kids can be much more intriguing. A good resource is scavengerhuntsforkids.com.

3. Plant a garden. It’s a little late, but getting plants from your local nursery will make up for the time difference. Plan the garden around a theme, i.e. a salad garden, an all-red garden, a garden where plants have animal names, etc. Include a pumpkin plant if you possibly can for the Halloween jack-o-lanterns. Make a scarecrow. Add a hummingbird feeder.

4. Have your own soapbox derby. Provide scrap materials and tools, as well as overall dimensions (for some uniformity). Let the kids spend a day or two building their pride and joy. Then let them help with ideas for the raceway. Ideally, this could be on a driveway or a smooth walkway. Borrow a stopwatch and teach the kids to use it. Have checkered flags. The music is good.

5. On a rainy day, play bingo, with prizes, of course. The winner of each round calls for the next round. For prizes, use good quality party favors, small gift certificates, snack foods, etc.

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