sUmMeR fUn

I am always looking for fun ideas to do together to keep my kids entertained and learning at the same time.  It's the start of the summer and that means many days to hear those 2 words we as mothers love to hear "I'm bored!"  I thought I would share some ideas for conquering those summer blues!

-LETTER OF THE WEEK - put items in a shoe box that start with that letter and let kids take turns picking out the items, go on a scavenger hunt around your house/outside to look for things that start with that letter and let older ones write the words to practice their spelling and writing skills, do an activity related to the letter and have a snack that begins with that letter!

-WATER DAY - set out a small swimming pool, sprinkler, slip 'n' slide, water balloons, etc. and just have fun getting wet.. this includes mom!

-HOGLE ZOO - Visit their website for more information and discount coupons.

-THANKSGIVING POINT - Visit the Dinosaur Museum,  The Barn (Dairy Days are June 19 & 20 - games and ice cream) or The Gardens.  Let your kids take pictures and make a book at home.  This will give you an opportunity to teach them about some computer programs they can use to make books.

-SUMMER MOVIE CLUBHOUSE AT CINEMARK - There are 10 movies showing on either Tuesdays or Wednesdays.  For $5 you can buy a pass making each movie only 50 cents!  FYI if you buy a pass you have to attend the movies each week on the same day.  If you don't buy a pass each movie is $1.

-SWIMMING LESSONS - Most cities swim lessons are 2 weeks - what kid doesn't love to be in the water and better yet they are learning!

-MUSIC CLASSES - Sign your kids up for piano lessons (or another instrument they may be interested in).  Check with your city to see if they offer music classes or there are many music companies who offer summer classes - Kindermusik and Art City Music Academy, were a few I could think of.  You can also create your own music class with homemade instruments, singing, dancing and flashcards. (Visit familyfun.com for homemade instrument ideas)

-CHILDREN'S DISCOVERY MUSEUM - This is a great place that provides hours of fun!  Check their website for more information and prices.

-SERVICE DAY - Let your kids clean out their toys, clothes, etc. and donate to a charity or someone in need, go on a walk and pick up garbage in your neighborhood, or bake cookies and take to friends and neighbors.

-BOOK CLUB - Start a book club with friends/cousins.  Pick an age appropriate book, read and then have a fun "book club party" where you talk about the book, do an activity that goes with the book and have a snack together!

-DANCE/SPORT CLASSES - There are so many city offered classes from gymnastics, dance, sports.  Through your city the classes are cheaper but sometimes can fill up fast.  Jump Up Gym in Lehi offers gymnastic, dance and summer classes as well.  

-THE LIVING PLANET AQUARIUM - Visit their website for more information

-PINIC AT THE PARK - Pack a lunch and spend the day at the park.  Visit different parks to give more variety!

-CITY DAYS - Each city has it's own "days" during the summer - Strawberry Days in Pleasant Grove, Lehi Round-up, OremFest, Freedom Festival in Provo... visit each city website to find out more information on fun free activities for the family!  Some of our favs are the "mini-float" parade during the Lehi Round-up, the Rodeo and Parade during Strawberry Days, and the Balloon launch during the Freedom Festival.  

-LIBRARY - Along with storytime most libraries have a summer reading program that your kids can participate in.

-MUSEUM DAY - Take your kids to visit museums in your area.  This is a great opportunity to teach your children and they will love learning!  Create an "I Spy" sheet for each kid to find things on their visit.

The list could go on and on with ideas...  Be creative, plan ahead and just have fun spending time with your kids!  Please share any other ideas you have for summertime fun!

Websites with more ideas:

- Kids Turn Central

- Kaboose

- Family Fun