Life Just Got... Sweeter

For the kids, summertime is water balloon fights, slumber parties and chasing fireflies on a cool night. While parents are typically joyful they no longer have to drive children to and from school for a couple of months, their joy is often transformed into frustration when they realize the added ruckus in their homes due to their children’s lack of routine and activities during the summer months.

Fun-filled pool parties have given way to stir-crazy kiddos asking “What are we doing today?” Before you know it, there will be enough activity centered around taxiing the kids to swimming lessons and day camp, leaving you wondering how you ever got a break in the action. How can we savor the sweet moments with the family before the back-to-school madness ensues? Fresh, fun and inexpensive ideas can keep the summer momentum going.

If you have smaller kids, the simplest ideas can give you a fun afternoon!

Bake and decorate cupcakes with your kids. Sounds simple, right? It’s a great way to help your child learn about fractions, or simply feel like he or she is a part of the process. Of course, the best part for them (and maybe you) is licking the frosting out of the bowl.

Paint the sidewalk. With colored sidewalk chalk, that is. This one will keep the kiddos busy while getting out into the fresh air and sunshine. Have they ever even heard of hopscotch?

Make rock crafts. We found these cute ideas from Martha Stewart on how to transform plain ol’ rocks into extraordinary masterpieces. With just a few supplies—paint, glue and clay—children can try out their skills as rock artists. Like sculptors, they'll learn to judge proportion and form. Like painters, they will need to consider color and shape, along with such pleasant dilemmas as how to create a tapered wing on a rounded rock.

Attend story time at your local library. Many places including have a regular weekly story time. It's free and it's fun, and exploring the library is always an adventure. Check out Duncan Library's event schedule.

For the more adventurous planner...

Plan an obstacle course party. Using household items and some creative planning tips, your kids will be tuckered out after scampering through hoops, crab walking through balloon tables and swinging over wading pools. Invite other families and lounge with your lemonade while you watch the fun (or join the fun). Top it off with an awards ceremony and barbeque for a fun-filled weekend.

Scavenger Hunt time! Plan a scavenger hunt within your home by planting clues in hiding places for your children. Each clue leads to the next one, and ends with a prize such as a sweet treat or a small toy. Your older kids may also like to plan a scavenger hunt for you.

Spend a Day Volunteering. There is no better time for kids to learn it is better to give than to receive. Many local soup kitchens and clothes drives accept young helpers. It is a lovely opportunity for your kids to appreciate what they have and give back to others in need.

Create some memorable moments with your family. Summer may be over in a few months, but the sweet memories will last a lifetime.