Summer time is a balance between wide open days and structured activities. Some days we decide what to do with a moment’s notice. Other days we build in more structure so mama does not lose her mind. 😉 I am excited for summer days and summer fun including my go-to lists of summer boredom busters for kids.
Childhood goes so quickly! Ask me how I know…mom of a 14 year old who is taller than me now! How did that happen?!
But seriously, I want my kids to soak up summer. We do not thrive when every day is scheduled out. But, we do need easy ideas to fill in the gaps when we all need an outing, an activity, or some focused time to break up the days.
Easy to set up crafts, learning activities disguised as fun, and free or cheap family activities are my go-to. These are all activities we can do to put some structure in a few days this summer. But, they will not make us feel over-scheduled or cost a lot.
The activities here are very inexpensive. Most do not require a hefty trip to your craft store. Using what you have at home, these boredom busters will help fill the gaps in your summer vacation days. The best part is, these ideas will not break the budget. Some only require one supply!
Boredom Busters for All Ages
Preschool
Children in this age group are naturally curious. They learn so much when presented with great opportunities. These summer boredom busters for preschool kids are simple to set up. They each teach an important concept, but you do not need a lot of fancy supplies.
When a child feels like they are playing a game rather than sitting and learning, you can always keep their attention longer. All of the activities on the list are created with that goal in mind.
Toddler
During this stage, children need to be able to learn in a hands-on way. Pick a few ideas from this list of toddler games. Create them during nap time or bedtime to prep them ahead. When you need to engage your toddler in a structured activity for a bit, you can pull one activity out.
A tip for this age group: Present only one activity at a time. When that one is done, your child may want to repeat it. Toddlers are known for wanting to do things over and over again. Let them focus on the activity as long as they want. This is really great for developing their attention span.
School Age
Big kids enjoy special activities just for them. There are great extension activities here that help enhance the learning your child did in school.
We do not do structured school work every day through the summer. Fun learning games are great for preventing summer slide. Simple games to play are great to try too.
Babies
When you have quiet moments at home with your baby, simple activities are a great way to break up the day. Each of these baby play ideas support infant development and learning. They were fun to do with my babies. We repeated the same little activities often. There is less to prep that way.
Free and Cheap Family Options
I have an ongoing series of free and cheap family activities in different locations around the country. You can even submit your local faves as well.
The budget friendly family activities listed by location. Most are near military bases. Definitely add your family’s favorites in the submission form too. I love adding new events for families to try.
Rainy or Indoor Days
This comprehensive list of rainy-day activities for kids are great when the weather does not allow for playtime outside. There are activities that are easy to set up and websites that are kid-friendly for responsible screentime. Keep the boredom away.
Keeping Boredom Away with Kids
Host a playdate with neighbors or friends with these easy steps. Incorporate a simple craft for the kids to try. With this list of ideas, summer boredom will not be a problem. You have so many activity resources to try.
How do you do summer vacation? Do you make bucket list or take it one day at a time?
We even have indoor boredom busters covered for the bad weather days.
Summer Boredom Busters for Kids
Summer Writing Prompts for School Age Kids
Help prevent summer slide of academics with these ideas.
Keep summer laid back and fun for the whole family.
This list has over 30 ideas for free and cheap activities.
And don’t forget about classic card games like Solitaire – they can provide hours of entertainment for kids (and adults) on a lazy summer day.
Sometimes weather means creating indoor activities that are gross motor as well. These ideas help a lot on indoor days.
These 10 family activities are perfect for weekend fun together.
Getting outdoors is always a good idea when the weather is nice. Try a hike with the kids.
A good resource to keep handy is this ultimate guide to summer with kids. Always a good idea to use on days when the boredom creeps in for the kids.
What are your favorite summer boredom busters? Any fun plans this summer?
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