10 Easy Summer Hacks for Family Fun
With the summer season in full swing, that means plenty of time spent outdoors and ways to make the most of the lengthy days. As families look to the season and beyond to entertain themselves, there is an opportunity to embrace a few clever hacks to get the most out of their outdoor time. Here are 10 summer hacks that offer simple and cost-effective ways to maximize family fun – no matter the budget.
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Embrace a Scavenger Hunt:
A classic game that is fun and can be tailored to suit any family’s interest. Scavenger hunts can take place at a nearby park or in the backyard, and can feature anything from collecting nature items to searching for lost items to solving clues. In addition, the online community offers tons of ready-made hunts for all ages available for download. -
Set up a Home Pool or Water Play Zone:
If room permits and the budget allows, consider setting up a simple home pool or some type of water play zone for the family to enjoy. This can be anything from a spray fountain, sprinkler or a basic kiddie pool with real or play water (aka food-grade plastic beads soaked overnight in water). -
Get Creative with a Playhouse:
A playhouse or pretend station – modern or traditional – provides endless possibilities for creating summer memories. With tools and materials, like cardboard boxes, duct tape, parachutes and hula-hoops, kids can easily transform their playhouse into a pirate ship or a make-believe castle. -
Design a Low-Cost Slip ‘n’ Slide:
Looking to recreate the water fun of a Slip n’ Slide without the expense? A tarp and some accessories can create a fun playing surface with a soapy slip. To create, simply stretch a tarp across your grass (or gravel), add a few squirts of liquid dish soap and some sprinkles of water. -
Explore with a Nature Hike: A nature hike is the perfect summer activity for kids and adults alike. With modern options like Geocaching, these outdoor explorations offer an ideal opportunity for families to observe and discover nature together.
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Build a Birdfeeder:
Birds are perennially popular with young and old alike. Create a birdfeeder out of a recycled milk carton, a few twigs, a sturdy string, some birdseed and an apple slice or two. In no time, you’ll have a homemade birdfeeder that the family can observe year round. -
Craft a Backyard Theater:
Create a theater under the stars for a magical night of fun and flicks for the family. Start by setting up a giant sheet or bedsheet to show the movie, incorporate a few paper star decorations, air mattresses and a few snacks, and don’t forget the popcorn! -
Make Playdough Creations:
Playdough is a timeless classic and with homemade playdough recipes, you can make a few batches in no time at all. Store-bought playdough is also an option and with some of the options available now, you may be surprised with the fun scents, colors and themes. -
Build an Old-fashioned Obstacle Course:
To create an obstacle course, select several activities appropriate for your kids and set them up in an obstacle course formation. This could include throwing (or stepping on) a hula-hoop, a few cones, hula-hoop balancing and more, and adults can involve themselves in the fun as well! -
Host a Sprinkler Night: Gather the neighbors and turn on the sprinklers for a night under the stars. If you don’t have a sprinkler – no problem – a couple of bucketsful of water can create the same effect. Don’t forget the beach play balls and a few cold drinks to make sure everyone stays cool.
Strategically planning fun activities for the family can create lasting memories for many summers to come. With these 10 easy summer hacks, families can easily and inexpensively craft outdoor activities that the entire family can enjoy. So this summer, get the family outside for a day of family fun and playful discovery.
