When we think about summer, most people focus on what to do with their children. However, those beautiful, sunny days can be fun for everyone. We know that a busy schedule can make having fun seem like an elusive dream, but with this handy checklist, you can carve out a few memorable moments to make summer great for everyone.

Outdoor summer activities

Gorgeous summer days should not be dedicated to weekend chores only. Use part of the weekend or summer vacation to plan and enjoy some outdoor activities. Here are some things you can add to your summer fun checklist.

• Plan a trip to a local waterfall. These natural wonders are often beautiful, with calming sounds and refreshing water that can help shift negative moods and enhance relaxation.
• Don’t skip beach or river days. These excursions allow you to reconnect with nature, relax, and release stress.
• Go fishing. Early mornings on the ocean can be great for your mental health. Fishing is relaxing and can provide fulfilment. Imagine the excitement of catching your first fish or having a few you can take home.
• Take a relaxing boat ride. Boating promotes mental health, and being near water can result in a meditative state (Blue Mind), inducing feelings of peace and calm.
• Have a family picnic at a park you’ve always wanted to visit or enjoy visiting.

Relaxing activities

Some summer days can be slow, making them perfect for relaxation. Making time to relax is integral to enjoying balance, and these activities can help.

• Go for an early morning walk. Walking can improve mood, boost energy, strengthen muscles and enhance mental clarity.
• Take a nap in a hammock in the shade. The swaying of the hammock can help you fall asleep faster, and you might get a deeper sleep.
• Spend time in your garden or start one. Tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers, and herbs thrive in warm weather, so summer is a good time to plant. Some benefits include reduced stress, improved diet, and relaxation.
• Go bird-watching. You can make bird-watching an adventure for the family. Prepare by reading up on the birds in your area, getting binoculars, and learning bird calls.
• Plan a movie night. Ask your partner and children for movie and snack suggestions. Set some ground rules, like putting phones and other devices away, so that you can be present with each other.

Cool indoor activities

When it’s too hot outside, you can use indoor activities to pass the time. Consider the following activities and enjoy.

• Plan a games night. Select some family favourites and include a few interesting new games. You can make it competitive by offering a prize or prestigious title with your family name, like “Johnson’s Family Master/Champion Gamer.”
• Do an adult mixology competition and let the kids or other family members judge. Remember to use mocktail recipes if children are judging.
• Invite friends over for an arts and crafts date. You can learn to make jewellery (bracelets, earrings, etc.), paint, or crochet.
• Have an at-home spa day. Manicures, mini massages, and pedicures can be a fun way to pass the time indoors.

Notable nostalgic activities.

Think about some activities you loved when you were a child and introduce them to your children.

• Play marbles. This game can be competitive, but it helps develop fine motor skills and eye coordination and encourages collaborative play and perseverance. Also, who doesn’t love winning new marbles?
• Go bike riding. Improved muscle strength, flexibility, coordination, and balance are some benefits of bike riding. You’ll enjoy riding around the neighbourhood with friends.
• Do a retro dance party. Dancing is a perfect bonding activity. Your children might cringe watching you bust out old-school dance moves or join in the fun. Either way, you’ll have lasting memories to cherish.
• Play musical chairs. Do two versions of this competitive but fun game: one for kids and one for adults. Prepare for lots of laughter, unexpected celebration, and excitement.

These activities will help you have fun while bonding with your children, family, and friends. We hope you will add some activities you love, especially those that are nostalgic. Have a great summer!

While you’re still here, use Find Yello to search for businesses that sell products and services that can help make summer exciting.

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Sources: Pioneer Woman, Virginia Department of Wildlife, Discover Boating, Healthline, Gardenary, The Craft Patch Blog, and Skill Prepare.