Summer Fun Survival
Summer is here with all of its glory, and while most days are fun, tedium sometimes can move kids to climb the walls. Below are some ideas of great CHEAP ways to keep them entertained all summer long.
Bubbles and Chalk
My girls could spend an entire day drawing with sidewalk chalk. Hand them a new package, and they are off for hours, creating all sorts of masterpieces. This summer, Crayola has added some really bright and bold colors to their chalk, with the red being a favorite in our home. Once the chalk has been worn to nubs, get out Crayola’s gigantic bubble wands and make colorful bubbles. After both chalk and bubbles, let the kids turn on the hose to play in/clean off. A fun, creative day for just a few bucks!
Get Crafty
Martha Stewart I am not. My girls did not get the message, though, and both love anything to do with crafts. In comes the local Michael’s store to the rescue! Throughout the summer, they are offering a craft time for next to nothing! For $2/child (5 and up), kids can travel around the world without leaving KC. The Passport to Imagination runs June 17-Aug. 2 and meets three times a week from 10:00 to Noon. See your local store for more information.
Fun in the Mail
Who doesn’t love receiving a package in the mail? I know that I do (especially a surprise package from my mom—always the best!). Kiwi Crate has taken that love of mail and combined it with fun for kids. Sign up for their summer crates, and kids will receive three crates full of engaging activities throughout the summer. The “Fun with Flight” crate kept my younger busy for half a day, and once she had completed the project, we were off to the park to fly her new kite.
FREE Fun
Believe it or not, there is a lot of FREE fun to be found this summer. First and foremost, keep your eye on our online Kansas City calendar for tons of free events. In addition, several locations are also hosting free fun specifically for the summer. The Kansas City Museum has summer drop-ins that are free, while the Toy and Miniature Museum offers free workshops throughout the summer (while the activity is free, you still need to pay for museum admission). Plus, the Kids Bowl Free program is back for another year. Check with your local bowling alley, as I know some are offering deals on shoe rentals to go along with the free bowling.
safe surfing
In order to avoid the summer slide, I put together learning activities for both girls throughout the summer. This summer both girls will be working on computer and technology skills. I purchased a used laptop for them to work on. I want them to become more familiar with certain programs and would like them to use the internet to do research. I’ve spoken with both girls about internet safety, but am excited to have an extra layer of protection (and education), thanks to a new, local company, KC Safety Net. Not only do they come to your house and help with the set up of parental controls, but they educate parents on the ever changing online world. KCSafetyNet.com
Lenexa mom Margaret Sarver will be enjoying lots of free fun with her girls this summer all around Kansas City!