I've been babysitting for a long time and every time summer rolls around, I look for new things to do with the kids. The standard games and activities are fun, but everyone could use something new to have a little fun! Take a look at these cool ideas to entertain the kids in your life this summer!
1. Make Slime
If you know anything about kids today, you know they are OBSESSED with making slime. There are many types of slime you can make: classic slime, magnetic slime, glitter slime, glow-in-the-dark slime, cloud slime, slime with beads in it - you name it, there's a slime for it. Making it is quite easy, but definitely do it outside (just in case). All you need is glue, water, Borax, food coloring, and any extras to add in your slime.
2. Build a blanket fort
Blanket forts are definitely underrated, in my opinion. What kid wouldn't love making a hideout with comfy blankets and pillows? You can make it fancy by stringing up twinkle lights and making sure the TV is visible for a movie night! Half the fun is making it with the kids - let them make signs and choose the blankets. The more ownership they have, the more proud they will be of their final product!
3. Gimp keychains/bracelets
When I was growing up, everyone had gimp keychains on their backpacks. It's an old activity, but it's fun to pass it on to a new generation of kids. Teaching them a new skill is a fun way to keep them engaged for a period of time! Plus, they get something to bring to school in September to show their friends!
4. Recreate a cooking show (eg. Chopped, Cupcake Wars)
This one should be done with caution. While Chopped seems like a fun idea, it can get a little crazy. Make sure you monitor what's happening, as well as adapt the ingredients so small children aren't using the stove. With Cupcake Wars, it might be best to pre-make the cupcakes and let the challenge be in decorating them. As long as you're safe, these will be fun ways to spend your summer afternoons!
5. Make Snow
This is a super easy science activity that only requires baking soda and shaving cream. The kids will love playing in snow that won't melt in the summer heat! Make snowmen, have a snowball fight, or just enjoy snow you don't have to shovel!
6. Have a salon
Whether it's doing hair or nails, have a fun time pampering the kids. Let them pick a fun new hairstyle or a cool nail design and get to work! Plus, they will have a lot of fun if you let them do yours too!
7. Grow a plant
Teach the kids about responsibility and patience by growing a plant. Let them pick a seed and make sure they keep it watered. By the end of the summer, they could have a beautiful flower or a summer veggie to enjoy!
8. Play with bubbles
Kids of all ages will love to play with bubbles. Find different sized containers and make the bubbles bigger! Have a competition for blowing the biggest bubble or the longest lasting bubble. Get creative with it - dye the bubble solution different colors or use them to paint pictures. There's lots of bubble fun to be had this summer!
9. Set up a treasure hunt
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The kids will love solving clues and finding hidden treasure in their yard! Make the clues challenging enough to have them working together, and make sure the treasure is something they'll enjoy!
