2021 Summer Activities for Families
These past 18 months have been like no other. Parents around the world stepped up to deal with the ravages of the pandemic and had to embrace new roles and challenges that they never bargained for. Overnight, parents became 24/7 playmates to their cooped-up kids, while trying their best at pretending to be a teacher and navigating working from home. Parents and kids alike had to deal with intense feelings like fear, grief, and loneliness, as the pandemic ripped all sense of normalcy from our families. Many parents said that while they were quarantined with their kids, they actually felt distanced as family members often retreated to their respective rooms and escaped onto their electronics.
But it is finally here; Summer 2021! The crushing fear is starting to lift and we are all longing for a sense of normalcy to return. This season will forever be remembered as the summer of gratitude as we take a collective sigh of relief, get outside, and reconnect with each other, the world, and nature. Nothing brings a family back to normal better than a bright, sunny, summer day. The following are a few inexpensive ways to reconnect as a family and welcome getting back into a healthy family rhythm.
Take it outside-Most activities you do inside (like reading, eating, and playing games) become special if you throw a blanket outside, curl up with your family, and dig in under the sun.
Plan a family dinner and really make it special. Assign each member an activity to take it to the next level. For example: Have one member pick a bouquet of dandelions, another can color place cards, another to choose the after-dinner game, etc. Make a big deal about the menu, allowing each member to plan and make a part of the meal. Then, dress up in your Sunday best and enjoy the special meal.
Celebrate with a backyard party, complete with a fun family theme. Invite other friends and families to make s’mores over a bonfire or an obstacle course. Try a treasure hunt that includes fun backyard items like finding a 4 leaf clover, a long stick, or even a creepy bug. This can keep kids excited and busy for hours!
Take a day trip. Most parks and splash pads are free or are available at little cost. They serve to entertain kids from toddlers to teens. Throw a few juice boxes and P&B sandwiches into a basket and you can make a day it.
