Although summer is envisioned to be a relaxing, more-simplified season, for families, the season can often be just as busy and chaotic as the school year. As summer inevitably comes to a close in the coming weeks, many families are now looking back on the past few months and recognizing all of the summer activities they have yet to do with their children. The good news is that, with several weeks still remaining in the summer, it is not too late to take full advantage of everything this season has to offer and enjoy the warm weather with friends and family. Here are some family adventures you can have to close out the summer on a positive note:
- Go on a picnic at Scott County Park
- Take a day trip to Niabi Zoo
- Experience the rides and attractions at the Mississippi Valley Fair
- Start a lemonade stand business
- Enjoy a swim at a pool or lake
- Go to the drive-in near Maquoketa for movie night
- Visit the Family Museum in Bettendorf or Iowa Children’s Museum in Coralville
- Make a DIY birdfeeder
- Make homemade popsicles
- Write letters or draw pictures and mail them to family and friends
- Go to a River Bandits baseball game
- Take a bike ride (and teach your children to ride a bike if they haven’t learned yet!)
- Go fishing
- Go stargazing
- Read outside
- Feed the ducks at Vander Veer Botanical Park
- Put on a family show, possibly including singing, dancing, acting, or comedy—whatever your child gravitates towards!
- Go for a camping trip in your own backyard
- Visit a playground your kids have never been to before
- Set up a sprinkler and slip’n slide in your backyard
- Have a car wash (lots of bubbles necessary)
- Make your driveway into a canvas with sidewalk chalk
- Pick wildflowers and make them into a bouquet
- Have a bonfire (s’mores included!)
No matter how many of these summer activities you are able to participate in during the coming weeks, do not forget to take lots of photos! You and your kids will appreciate the memories when looking at the photos in the years that follow.
