Looking to spice up your summer?

The 5 Most Exciting Summer Activities You Can Do with Little Ones

By: Dixie Somers

Is boredom casting a shadow on the long, sunny days of summer? There are plenty of ways to have fun and keep your cool with little ones in tow. Whether you want to stay in or go out there are plenty of options for summer activities.

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1. Go local

Find a local farm, petting zoo, or produce stand to visit. Pick strawberries, purchase plants, or just enjoy the scenery. Getting the family into the community is fun and cheap, and you may just find a hidden gem right in your own neighborhood while supporting a small business.

2. Make a silly treat

Too hot to play outside today? Stay indoors and make a fun and delicious treat. Make any kind of pudding and scoop into individual plastic cups. Top with crushed Oreos and add a fake flower on top. Get creative and incorporate gummy worms, or place the "plants" in small clay pots for an even more realistic look that can be used as center pieces and party favors.
 
3. Throw a sprinkler party

Have dad fire up the grill and don his penguin swim shorts or another cool new brand stocked by Reem menswear. Let the little ones run through the sprinklers and play with hoses with the neighbors' kids while the grown ups catch up and mix margaritas. Almost as fun as the water park without the drive or the price of admission.

4. Christmas in July

Rainy day? Be a little wacky and pretend it's winter again. Make some hot chocolate and put a Christmas movie on. Fold white papers several times and make cuts to create elegant snowflakes and have some soup for dinner.

5. Take a hike

Whether you live in the mountains, by the sea, or even in the desert there is a hiking trail nearby. Look for a scenic walk that won't be too strenuous for your brood and head out for some fresh air. Make sure to bring plenty of water and wear appropriate clothing. To keep the kiddos interested, try incorporating a scavenger hunt. Give each child a checklist of things they might see on their adventure and see who can find the most items or finish first.

There is so much summer fun to be had that the summer might just go by faster than you want it to. It doesn't take a whole lot of money or gas to have an exciting summer - just some creativity and imagination.