We are all thinking it… Maybe you are even Googling “What to do with my kids all summer” after they go to bed.
As the school year ends and the kids come flooding through the front door ready to conquer summer vacation, parents everywhere are struck with one overwhelming thought: What now?
Fear not—we’ve gathered the ultimate list of boredom busters, creative projects, and mini-adventures designed to keep the kids happily occupied while you keep your sanity intact. Whether you’re working from home or just trying to sip your iced coffee in peace, here’s how to make this summer fun, enriching, and (mostly) meltdown-free.
- Theme Days Are Your Best Friend
Designate each weekday with a simple theme:
- Make-It Monday: Crafts, baking, building forts—anything hands-on.
- Tinker Tuesday: Science experiments (think vinegar and baking soda volcanoes or slime).
- Water Wednesday: Sprinklers, water balloon fights, DIY slip-and-slide.
- Take-a-Trip Thursday: Explore a new park, museum, or even just a different neighbourhood.
- Film Friday: Let the kids plan a backyard movie night with popcorn and blankets.
Bonus: Post a calendar on the fridge so they know what to look forward to each day.
- Camp Parent: DIY Summer Camp at Home
You don’t need a lake or a bus. With a little planning, your backyard can rival any day camp. Pick weekly “camp themes” like:
- Space Week (rocket crafts, star-gazing night, moon sand play)
- Nature Explorers (bug hunts, leaf rubbings, DIY bird feeders)
- Olympics (set up an obstacle course and have silly medal ceremonies)
Let them make their own “camp shirts” with tie-dye or fabric markers for instant engagement.
- The Great Screen Time Exchange
You’re not anti-screens, you’re just pro-balance.
Create a daily “screen-time currency” system where kids earn digital minutes by reading, helping with chores, or completing a creative challenge. You’ll be amazed how quickly beds get made when Mario Kart is on the line.
- Independent Play Stations (no not that kind of Play Station…)
Set up simple play zones that encourage self-directed fun. Ideas include:
- A LEGO challenge table (rotate themes: “build a zoo,” “make your dream house”)
- Art nook with crayons, scrap paper, and glue sticks
- A reading fort with pillows and a flashlight
- Sensory bins (water beads, rice, kinetic sand; the beauty of summer is that these can be done outside to decrease clean up!)
Rotate materials weekly to keep things fresh and spark curiosity.
- The 15-Minute Rule
This parenting hack is gold: When the kids seem extra clingy, give them 15 minutes of undivided attention.
Read a book together, build something, or just listen. That concentrated connection often gives them the confidence to go off and play independently, buying you precious alone time.
- Evening Energy Burners
When that late-afternoon chaos hits, get outside. A family walk, scooter ride, or even a dance party on the porch can do wonders.
With a little planning and a lot of flexibility, you can make this summer memorable and keep your cool doing it.
