Kid Friendly Fun: Beat the Summer Blues

As we enter the dog sayd of summer, don't let the kids suffer from boredome. Here are some kid-friendly locations sure to please even the most unruly child.

• East Matunuck State Beach

Come to the state beach on Succotash Road to enjoy some sunshine, sand and waves. Don't forget the sunscreen and the snacks for the kids. With bathrooms and pavilions to eat under, you'll be all set for a picnic and to spend the whole day at the beach. 

For more information, visit www.riparks.com or call 401-789-8585. 

• South Kingstown Library Children's Summer Programs

From today until Friday, Aug. 19, at the Kingston Free Library and Peace Dale Library, children ages pre-school through 6th grade are invited to participate in the 2011 One World, Many Stories Summer Reading Program at the Kingston Free Library and at the Peace Dale Library. Earn prizes, including a free book at the end, for reading and being read to throughout the summer.

Both Kingston Free and Peace Dale Libraries are partnering this summer with Ethiopia Reads, an organization supporting children's literacy and reading in Ethiopia, and you can help. For each child registered in the summer reading program, each library will make a donation toward Ethiopia Reads. To learn more, contact the youth services librarian at 783-8254 (Kingston Free Library), or 789-1555 ext. 115 (Peace Dale Library).

Head down to the Peace Dale Library on Wednesday, July 27, from 2  to 4 p.m. to Tie-Dye shirts. Students entering grades 7 and up can show off who they are by designing two unique shirts (or bandanas or hats or any white cotton clothing). Bring a white one for tie dying done with Sharpies and a dark one for sprayed-on bleach designs. Registration is required. Participants are asked to bring one or two shirts with them. To register or for questions, call 789-1555.

On Thursday, July 28, from 11:00 a.m. to noon, at Peace Dale Library, kids ages 4 and up are invited to learn about and create their own take-home piñata with the Piñata Center of Providence. Registration is required and there is a one piñata per family limit. Visit or call the library at 789-1555, ext. 115 to secure a ticket.