How to Keep the Little Ones Busy this Summer…and Mommy Sane!

I have determined that there are three categories of moms: the first category is moms who are working and have to go into the office every day. The second category are WFHM’s who have to balance work and kids within their own homes and the last category are moms who are SAHM’s who have a challenge of being with their kids 24/7 and need creative ways to keep them busy.

Therefore, I consolidated the top 10 ways to keep your children busy throughout the summer that is hopefully useful for all three categories of moms listed above.

1. Don’t underestimate the power of the library: Whether they admit it or not….kids love a good book! Every city has a local library where you can take your children to discover the world of reading. If they fight you tooth and nail you can bribe them using the internet stations at the library so that at least you can get them out of the house. Hopefully you can then curl up with a good book while your child surfs the net.

2. Treasure Hunt at the Local Park: What child doesn’t love a good treasure hunt? Before you leave the house make a list of all the “treasures” you will want to find at the park. Then bring the list with you and a bag (to carry the treasures in) and let your kids run free to find the treasures. Bring a picnic lunch too to extend your day there.

3. Explore your own city: Check online at your city’s official website listed should be all the fun things for tourists to do around the city. Act like you are tourists in your own city and re-discover how beautiful it is.

4. Crafty Kids: This doesn’t have to be expensive. Dig out all that spare change from your purses, jean pockets, and backseat of the car to take the kids to the loonie store to buy craft supplies. Let them pick out the craft supplies then spend the afternoon making creations that will last a lifetime.

5. Swap Play dates with a Neighbor: Find a neighbor or a good friend to swap kids one day per week. That way you know you have at least one day to yourself to run errands or even just spend the day at the spa…..ahhhhhh!

6. Build a Photo Album: If you are too scared to let your kids play with your expensive high powered camera then buy some cheap disposable ones and head out on a photography tour. Let your kids take pictures of whatever suits their fancy then you can print them off and make a photo album of their summer vacation.

7. Bowling: Take your kids to the local bowling alley for some fun. Invite friends so that you can make it a social outing.
 
8. Zoo: Usually a Zoo will be around 10 kilometers in total length. Rent a bike or take a stroller and get some exercise while walking through the zoo and teach your kids about the animals. Bring a picnic lunch to keep costs down.

9. Get Wet: Kids love to swim. Check out the summer camps or drop in sessions at your local community pool for some water fun. For more water fun check out local water parks in your area.  If you can’t make it out to the pool, then a sprinkler in the backyard will do just fine.  Kids just love to be in water!
 
10. Create a Production: Kids love to pretend and create. Why not encourage them to script, produce and direct their own play. This activity could last for an entire day and sometimes two days and in the end you will get to watch your kid’s masterpiece.

Have a GREAT summer!