Every summer since my kids were young we have done a bucket list. When they were real little I chose the activities, but as they grew, then they submitted their opinions. In addition to that, I saved all of the past bucket list items they chose for memories. My smash book holds our fun summer bucket list memories.
If you want to have a great summer full of memories with your children sit down, grab some paper and write out some bucket list items. How many doesn’t matter, what’s important is to make the time to complete the bucket list. I think last week our antiquing trip was a lot of fun for them and me. Try something new and have a great summer. This week we did some games indoors and outdoors due to the weather. More outside and less screen time is our goal this summer.
Kick The Can
As a kid we played kick the can all of the time. it is so much fun. More kids equal more fun. This game is easy to play, but tricky. You have to hide which is great, then be sneaky and try to kick the can. If the person who is it tags you before you kick the can, then you go into a spot where you have to stay until someone else kicks the can. Having at least four or more kids is a lot of fun for the game. The strategy involved allows kids to get outside and enjoy the wonderful sun and sweat that comes with running.
We try to spend several hours a day outside and this game has helped. Granted it is not one we play in the heat of the day, but like today it is fun in the morning to get the kids moving. Then after a good hour of this game it is off to the pool.
Cartwheels
Honestly, I have not done a cartwheel in so long it is ridiculous. Trying to explain it to my boys was harder than showing them, but I was worried how bad I would look. They did get the hang of it pretty easy. My goal was to have them try something new, and they did.
It was important that I not critique them too much because they did enjoy it and I did not want to ruin that fun, but admittedly that they were bending their legs went over. As I tried to explain to them the straighter they can keep their legs then it will propel them over. After a few more times of trying the cartwheel they decided a handstand would be more fun. I had to agree.
Bowling
Many years’ now we have went bowling. kids bowl free is a website for kids to sign up each summer and receive free bowling benefits. My oldest son has been going since he was 15. They are all pretty good bowlers and have kept the competition going over the past summers. As they have grown, so have their skills. I love watching them play each year. Kids bowl free also has a great summer pass for parents to get discounted prices and play with their kids. It really is a great experience. The only real expense is bowling shoes.
This summer we have chosen to go bowling on Friday’s. They offer one free game daily, but we go once a week. Too much bowling may become monotonous. Our goal is to enjoy it and grow in our strike zone. Someday the kids might choose to bowl without bumpers, but until then they will keep trying to bowl straight.
Capture The Flag
A new game was introduced to me this summer. It does require at least 4 kids to play. Even teams helps the game operate well. One team has a flag and their other team has another flag of a different color. The basic objective is to get the other team’s flag and place it in your team’s spot, and vice versa. The other team’s objective is to keep you from getting their flag.
This game is a lot of funny and watching the kids’ strategize to win is hilarious. Be careful though, it is a lot of fun that can go on for hours. Have plenty of lemonade and popsicles ready for them to keep having fun.
Summer fun can take place in your own backyard. Try something new with your kids this summer. For more frugal fun tips for families sign up for my newsletter! Find me on Instagram @momsarefrugal.com.
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