Summer time is the perfect time to go camping, to the beach, to the mountains, or to visit Grandma and Grandpa. So if you’re expecting the grandkids for an extended visit this summer, here are some activities to keep them (and you) smiling.
Have the kids run off some of that summer energy by flying a kite. Younger children may need help getting it off the ground, but once they get the hang of it, there’s really nothing to it! Why not talk to your grandkids about your first kite?
If you have older grandchildren, they might want to make their own kite. Here are some great links with more information on kite building:
 |
|
Nothing’s more relaxing after an active day than sitting under the stars. Stargazing is a wonderful way get young children to transition from playtime to sleep time. My daughter showed in interest in the stars when she was only two-years-old. In fact, the one thing that she wanted for her 2nd birthday was a telescope. (Thank you, Dora the Explorer for expanding her mind! Get Dora The Explorer Wish on a Star video.)
For young children, you don’t need to spend money on a fancy telescope. We bought one for our daughter for $30 at a kid’s toy store. But honestly, she’s gotten more use out of the binoculars that came with it than the telescope. She’s carried her “nawclurs” around for over a year until they finally broke. Older children will enjoy gazing through a real telescope. Look at second-hand stores or garage sales to find one without breaking your budget.
Click here for some stargazing tips.
| Another fun idea is to have a picnic with your grandkids. But what would pass as a laid-back meal for you, requires more planning for a child on summer vacation. Bring frisbees, ball and glove, bubbles, and books or try having a themed picnic as a way to bring excitement to lunch. |  |
Perhaps your preschool-aged granddaughter would like to bring her teddy bears on your picnic. You can pack Teddy Grahams, assorted berries, and even Luna’s Honey Lemonade from Bear in the Big Blue House.
When it gets too hot outside, my daughters and I stay inside for our picnic lunch. All the fun, none of the bugs!
 |
Taking something indoors that is usually done outside is a great twist that kids love. Instead of camping outside, why not try it in the family room? Shut off the TV, pull out the sleeping bags, pop some popcorn, and gather around for campfire stories. You can even download a fire screensaver for added ambience! |
If none of these tickle your fancy,
you and your grandkids could try growing a garden, building sandcastles, putting
up a lemonade stand, going swimming, playing in a sprinkler, or any number of
other summer activities. Just remember to put on lots of sunscreen and/or bug
spray, drink plenty of fluids, and have fun!