Every year summer rolls around, and we hear the same question—what are we doing today? Sometimes, it gets tricky to answer. Maybe you don’t want to break the bank or plan a vacation but still want to give your kids a summer they won’t forget.
Here’s a handful of outdoor and indoor activities to keep you and your family entertained all summer long.
Outdoor activities
Visit metro parks in your area
Whether you’re hiking, running or just walking, being in nature is always good for the body and soul. It doesn’t hurt that Ohio has some of the top metro parks around. Try to get to all of your local metro parks, and for some extra fun, challenge your family to make it to as many as possible this summer.
Turn your driveway into a chalk masterpiece
Show off your children’s artistry through sidewalk chalk! Drawing with chalk is a great way to get outside and expend some energy without leaving your own yard. Chalk isn’t just limited to drawing pictures, it also gives you the freedom to draw your own games! Your children might have fun drawing different versions of hopscotch or writing silly messages for the neighborhood to enjoy.
Splash around
Don’t want to spend the money on a pool pass this summer? No worries, you can bring the water to your backyard! Set up your sprinkler, fill an inflatable pool, toss water balloons or roll out a water slide. Here are 10 sprinkler activities for some inspiration. Don’t forget your sunscreen!
Have a picnic
You don’t have to go far to have a picnic – you can have one right in your backyard! Grab your family’s favorite snacks and drinks and head outside. Even better, you can get the kids involved in setting up. Let them help prepare lunch or get your picnic space ready by spreading out blankets and setting plates.
Plant a garden
Gardening is a great way to get some outdoor exercise while growing fresh fruits and vegetables for a healthy diet. Your little ones can help dig holes and place seeds, or help water the plants as they grow. As a matter of fact, growing vegetables in Ohio is pretty easy! We’ll help you get started with our tips for growing a garden.
Camp out
Camping out is a fun summer tradition that is guaranteed to make memories to last a lifetime. Prepare a cookout, gather s’mores supplies and roll out your sleeping bags. Plus, all you need is a little green space in your yard if you don’t want to make the trip to your local campsite.
Indoor activities
Learn new recipes
Get the kids involved in cooking by teaching them some kid-friendly recipes. You might just discover a new dish that everyone in the family loves! Here is a list of recipes perfect for an assist from the kiddos. Curious about our suggestions? Check out recipes from OhioHealth dietitians on the OhioHealth blog.
Build a fort
Forts are a fun way to let your children express their creativity. Plus, it’s easy! Gather some pillows and blankets and get to building. When they’re satisfied with their creation, have a movie night or sleepover in the fort to keep the fun going.
Have a family game night
Break out your board games and cards for a family game night. You can even create your own board game to really make it your own. Let your kids pick which games they want to play, then play a few rounds with one before moving onto the next. This will make sure everyone gets to play their favorite game.
Get crafty
Arts and crafts opportunities are endless! You and your kids can pick an old favorite or a new interest. For some simple crafts, try drawing, painting or making slime. If you need a little inspiration, check out these 50 DIY activities for kids.
Do a small home renovation
Kids are never satisfied with their space for more than a few months, are they? Summer is a great time to do the renovations you’ve been putting off. This doesn’t have the be big– you could simply paint their furniture or rearrange their room for a new look while keeping your budget low.
Want to get outside this summer? Check out the summer festivals and celebrations near you.
