If you are anything like me, you are spending most of your time this summer earning money the best way you know how--by babysitting. Babysitting is one of the most enjoyable and easiest jobs out there. You show up. You play. You leave. It really is that simple. However, the best babysitters don’t just choose to sit around and watch TV as the kids aimlessly play on their iPhones (although I’ve had my fair share of these moments). These kids look up to us as their source of fun. Therefore, it is our job as babysitters to release our own inner child and be creative. This can then lead to the most significant aspect of babysitting: a lasting bond with the kids. Here are a few suggestions for some original summertime fun.

1) Take them to the zoo:

Kids love animals, but so do babysitters, of course. Make sure to take the kids on a day that isn’t so sweltering hot (trust me, I already made this mistake).

2) Build a fort:

Kids just can’t seem to get enough of this. Really, all you need are a few blankets and some high furniture. If you’re feeling imaginative, you can even decorate the insides with pillows and other items to rearrange it into a house, a teepee, or whatever your mind may conjure up.

3) Have a makeover party:

If you happen to babysit all girls, whip out the beauty products. I always forget how badly little girls want to put on makeup just like we do. Work with their face, hair, nails, wardrobe, and plan a fashion show at the end for them to strut their new look. If you’re feeling super sweet for that day, you can even let them do your own makeup.

4) Go to the bowling alley:

This is something fun for the babysitter and the kids. Make sure to help them on their rolling and ask for the bumpers.

5) Go to the movies:

I can guarantee you, there is always an animated film the kids are dying to see. If this is too expensive for you, I know that some theaters feature old movies in the summer with a cheaper price for tickets and snacks. Look out for those offers.

6) Arts and Crafts:

What little kid doesn’t love to color, paint, and get their hands a little messy? Search online for ideas such as making a crown, tie dying t-shirts, or even crafting a new homemade game to play.

7) Go for a swim:

Some families do have pools in their backyard. Use them. If not, take them to your own pool or a neighborhood one. If that’s not available, there is always the sprinkler alternative and an ice chest full of water balloons.

8) Let them cook with you:

One of the best memories I have from babysitting is when the kids and I made a pizza with simple ingredients from the local grocery store. Let me tell you…it was delicious. Baking is also a tasty option. Even if it’s just cracking an egg or pouring in the milk, let the kids assist you and give a helping hand. They would love to be a part of whatever you’re cooking.

9) Go on a picnic:

After cooking or baking, take a blanket outside to the park or to the backyard. Turn the event into a tea party or restaurant if the kids want to get more involved.

10) Play board games:

Puzzles or Monopoly are usually lying around the house somewhere. If not, hide-and-seek is always a crowd favorite.

11) Play Putt-Putt Golf

If there isn't somewhere available around town, try using cups, a long stick, a ping pong ball, or anything else you may find.

12) Create a scavenger hunt:

The kids I babysit have a very large backyard with tons of nature to explore. I wrote a list and sent them out to search; it was a fun time. If no backyard space, try listing items within the house. It will be just as fun as they scramble to search.

13) Take them to a museum:

It’s educational and fun.

14) Stop for ice cream:

Snow balls, frozen yogurt, or anything cold and sweet is sure to keep the little ones happy in the heat.

14) Take them to the library:

This is one of the best options of all because it is completely free. The kids can choose whatever books or movies they would like to read and watch (in their fort, of course) free of charge. The library I take my kids to in town also has a few events during the summer, such as story time and movie features. Another educational, yet fun, opportunity.

Being a babysitter may be easy, but being their best friend for the summer is a little bit more challenging. However, when I get creative, I find myself forgetting that babysitting is a job in the first place. Whatever you plan to do this summer with your kids, make sure it is something they will remember forever--and hopefully you will too.