Summer Fun with your kids!

On my second day of vacation I sit with my foot up because I'm back on crutches.
I think God wanted me to finally write the blog of sharing summer ideas to do with your kids with others...
I absolutely love being home with my kids in the summer.  Many people look at it as a curse... God gave us our children for a purpose. They know when you are annoyed or exasperated and don't want to spend time with them.  Loving and spending time with them can be done inexpensively and can have lasting impressions.  That's what we want!

So here are a few lists of ideas:

At home:
1.  Journal your adventures... a sentence, picture, or story.  I have made these into books. They will read them over and over.
2.  Story blanket.  At random times take a blanket and read to your kids.  OR they can read to each other.  It can be devotions, children's books, or pick a chapter book for the month and then watch the movie.  Make sure they are reading.
3.  Cook.  Chop. Measure. Teach.  Experience in the kitchen... make sure to have loud music playing.
4.  Friends over.  Your influence is sometimes better than other parents... so invite them over.  Be the all time pitcher, judge of the show, or videographer.
5.  Yes, make videos... instantaneous air bands are AWESOME!
6.  Camp outs and bon fires.  My kids have spent more time frying saw dust over the fire and making mint/ dirt tea.
7.  Popsicle parties... or slushy maker (very cheap and a big hit)
8.  Books on tape.... in the car... Narnia by Focus on the Family is AWESOME!  Odyssey series is fun too!
9  Theme days... backwards- silly--pioneer-- sports-- ocean--characters.  Journal it!

Out and About:
1.  Library... visit twice a week and sign up for their programs.
2.  Morning Zoo... Go for just  a couple of hours... with a friend... RUN THEM!
3. Science Center is free on Tuesdays.  Enough said.
4.  Geauga Park District or Metroparks.  Experience nature... walking is always good... journal what you see!
5.  Presque Isle is an awesome beach to visit... 11/2 hours.. ( 1 movie) pack a picnic
6.  DQ/ Steak and Shake.... 1/2 price from 2-4.
7.  Dollar movie is still in Willoughby
8.  Art museum is always free...

Save Money:

1. Before you leave for anywhere:   Make water bottles... better for you.
2.  Take snacks with you... don't buy them where they are jacked up prices
3.  Say NO to any whining.
4.  Stick to the plan


Spending time with your kids is the most important... don't send them away too much.  They want YOU!