In the summer lots of kids are less than eager to do anything they feel is like school work, so sit down crafts are not always the best choice. Or if you are like me and juggling an infant and an older child these quick summer activities are fast to set up, and easy to navigate with one in your arms and one busy exploring. You are probably familiar with all of these ideas but I know I get in a rut and the most obvious ideas are sometimes forgotten.
Driveway Art
I am sure most of you have sidewalk chalk. This is not at all an original idea but what we did with the chalk was fun and I want to share it. We drew a train and then grabbed an atlas and chose all different places to go to. Each place we picked up a new person that my son drew into the train. A fun outdoor geography lesson!
Play Dough & Scrap Paper Creations
I have been grabbing the play dough a lot in the past 2 weeks. My son loves to pretend to be a baker and make cakes while I check my email, or tend to his sister. The other day we decided to grab some scrap paper and add it to the cakes as decorations. Not exactly earth shattering but a really easy twist and it kept him entertained for ages! Also using scissors to cut the paper ( or playdough) is extra fine motor skills practice.
Spray Painting
$1 spray bottle from the dollar store, 2 pieces of paper, some water, washable paint and he was in heaven! Mix the paint in with the water, and let them loose.
Window Washing
I did a similar activity with my son when he was under 2 so I was shocked that now pushing 4 he would still be into it. Wow is he ever. He loves getting water, paint brushes and “washing windows” he also does the siding and porch for free! Simple , cheap and it promotes imaginative play. Not bad for a quick summer activity!
And if all that fails… Bubbles!
Teri says
Another favorite of mine when I was little was to use a paintbrush or q-tip to paint the sidewalk or deck with water 🙂
.-= Teri´s last blog ..Rite Aid -amp CVS goodies =-.
Jen says
I like the spray paint idea. Another quick oldy, but goody. Play keep it up with a beach ball or balloon. I haven’t gotten the bubbles out in a while.
.-= Jen´s last blog ..The Baby Times- 12th Edition- Sensory Activities =-.
Carol says
Love these ideas… especially the paint in the spray bottle, which I haven’t seen before. We’ll be sure to try it. I also liked the sea urchin idea from your last post too – we might use some play dough for the body. Thank you for the ideas – this is a wonderful blog.
.-= Carol´s last blog ..For a different kind of green =-.