Summer Summer Summertime: 5 Ways to Keep the Kids Entertained
Written By: Shamika Sanders
As the mother of a soon-to-be kindergartener and rambunctious one-year-old, the summertime presents a unique challenge. And did I mention I work from home full-time? As the doors shutter close for summer vacation, this annual question presents itself, how do I keep both children entertained and learning while school is out?
Sure, there are the standard family vacation, trips to the park and expensive summer camps, but if you’re looking for some inexpensive and creative ways to keep your child busy when they’re at home this summer, check out some interactive activities to do with your child.
Visit The FDNY Fire Zone
Firefighters are real-life superheroes and the fire station is full of exciting things like poles, firetrucks, and suits with suspenders. I remember visiting the fire station when I was a child and idolizing those brave enough to run into fires when everyone is supposed to be running away. According to The FDNY Fire Zone website, the Fire Zone is a fire-safety learning center that provides an “a fire simulator that utilizes special effects and multimedia to help teach visitors about fire safety and what to do in case of a fire emergency.” If that program is unavailable in your neighborhood, you can visit your local fire station for a safe and educational experience your child will use in their everyday life.
Visit The Aquarium Or Zoo
Aquariums and zoos allow the public to see exotic and wild animals up close, and the opportunity to feed (or watch) certain species on your own. Visiting the zoo has many benefits from “zootherapy” to being a safe sensory experience for children with autism or ADHD.
“Animals can help to provide children with a sense of calm and can help to reduce their levels of stress and anxiety. They can also help to improve children’s social skills and can help to increase their level of communication.”
Interview A Family Member
Cultivate your child’s inner journalist with this activity that will sharpen their communication skills while encouraging a bonding experience between family members. Take it to the next level by incorporating elements like a toy microphone or pretend camera set-up (everyone has a camera phone these days). You can also get in on the fun by helping your child come up with engaging questions.
Nature Observation Bingo
Put an educational spin on the classic Bingo game by creating your own bingo cards with your school-age children and have fun crossing out items as you explore. This simple and cost-friendly activity is easy and incorporates the outdoors. Start by downloading and printing out this Nature Observation Bingo Card (or you can draw your own). In each square, draw or an animal, plant, insect, or object you might find along your path. Each card should be different. Have fun crossing out squares while explaining the environment to your curious tot.
Go Camping
The great thing about going camping is you can pitch a tent almost anywhere (stay away from areas populated with animals, stagnant water and other danger zones). Whether on a camp site, in the wild, or in your backyard for outdoor play close to home, camping is an interactive experience that helps hone your child’s skills, cultivate their interest in nature and increase bonding time. Pick up a tent from your local Walmart (under $100) and stock it up with you and your child’s favorite items, ie: snacks, beverages, and fun tools. When the sun goes down, teach your child how to make a campfire and light up some smores for some good ole’ family memories.