With summer just around the corner, the urge to get out and enjoy the warm weather is stronger than ever.
But with the rising costs of travel and entertainment, many families are looking for ways to enjoy the season without breaking the bank.
Thankfully, you don’t need to venture far or spend a fortune to make the most out of your summer.
Here’s a list of fun, creative, and budget friendly activities you can do right at home with the kids.
1. Create a Backyard Oasis
Transforming your backyard into a beautiful retreat is a fantastic way to enjoy the outdoors without leaving home.
For the kids, setting up a water play area with sprinklers or a small pool can provide hours of fun.
Start with some basic gardening - planting flowers or even a small vegetable garden can be a peaceful and rewarding activity and a great way for kids to learn how to garden.
If space allows, consider setting up a hammock, a swing, or a comfortable seating area with cushions and blankets for a cozy reading nook.
In the evenings, why not organize a family campout? Pitch a tent, roll out the sleeping bags, and enjoy a night under the stars.
2. Host a DIY Film Festival
Choose a theme – it could be your favorite actor, genre, or a series of movies from a particular decade.
Create movie tickets, arrange seating with comfy pillows and throws, and prepare a selection of snacks like popcorn, nachos, or homemade candy.
You could even make it an all-day event, complete with intermissions and discussions about each film.
This activity is perfect for movie buffs and provides a great way to catch up on films you’ve missed or revisit old favorites.
Why not entertain your kids with some '80s and '90s classics like Back to the Future, E.T. or Honey I Shrunk the Kids?
3. Explore Culinary Creations
Summer is the perfect time to experiment with new recipes, especially with the abundance of fresh produce available.
You can start a weekly tradition like "Make-it Monday" where each family member picks a new recipe to try.
Themes like homemade pizza nights, taco bars, or DIY sushi can make cooking fun and engaging for all ages.
Take the experience a step further by setting up your dining area to match the theme of the meal.
For instance, a Mediterranean night can have decorations like candles and lanterns, paired with a playlist of regional music.
4. Get Crafty
Crafting can be therapeutic and a fantastic way to unleash kids' creativity.
Consider different projects like making a journal, scrapbooking or mixed media crafts.
We have tons of craft tutorials for everything from fun preschool crafts to Disney paper crafts for older kids.
You can also repurpose old furniture or upcycle items like jars and containers into beautiful, functional pieces.
Organize a crafting day with friends or family, where everyone can bring their supplies and share skills. You could even try some outdoor nature crafts!
Not only do you get to create and keep your crafts, but you also get the chance to learn new techniques from others.
5. Gardening: Go Green
If you haven't already gotten your hands dirty with gardening in your backyard, consider starting a herb garden or a butterfly or bee-friendly garden.
Gardening is not only relaxing but also incredibly rewarding when you see your plants flourish.
It’s a great educational tool for kids to learn about nature and sustainability.
Plus, growing your own herbs and vegetables can be immensely satisfying – there’s nothing quite like the taste of food that’s been freshly picked from your own garden!
Read more: How to Teach Children How to Garden
6. Organize a Home Spa Day
This one is perfect if you have teeenagers, especially girls!
Turn your home into a spa with a day dedicated to relaxation and pampering.
Light some scented candles, play soft music, and set up a series of stations for different treatments like facials, manicures, and massages.
You can make homemade face masks with natural ingredients from your kitchen, like avocados for hydration or honey for its antibacterial properties.
This can be a wonderful way to have fun with your teenage kids so you can relax and reconnect.
7. Indoor Treasure Hunt
Create an indoor treasure hunt for a fun and adventurous day.
Write clues and hide them around your house leading to a treasure (maybe a box of treats or small gifts).
This can be tailored to any age group, making it more complex for adults or simpler for younger children.
Or you could try this indoor scavenger hunt.
8. Practice or Learn Yoga
Yoga is a great way to improve flexibility, strength, and mental clarity which makes it a great tool to teach our kids.
There are numerous online platforms offering free classes for all levels.
Set up a quiet space in your house, roll out a yoga mat, and stream a class.
Regular practice can improve your overall well-being and can be a calming, centering activity, especially beneficial if you're trying to stay active during the summer.
9. Host a Virtual Family Reunion or Friend Gathering
With many people still spread out across different locations, why not use technology to bring everyone together?
Hosting a virtual family reunion or a gathering with friends can be a delightful way to connect and share experiences even if you can't meet in person.
You can organize themed virtual events, such as a family talent show, trivia night, or costume party.
Use video conferencing tools like Zoom or Google Meet, which allow for large groups and interactive features like breakout rooms for smaller chats.
10. Build a Reading Nook and Start a Book Club
There’s something magical about losing yourself in a good book, especially in the comfort of a cozy, dedicated spot.
Create a reading nook in your home by setting up a comfortable chair or bean bag in a quiet corner with good lighting.
Add some shelves with your favourite books, a small table for a drink and snack, and perhaps a soft throw blanket for cooler evenings.
You could even creating an oputdoor reading nook if you live in a warm climate.
Staying home and saving money doesn't need to mean missing out on summer fun.
With a little creativity and planning, you can enjoy countless activities that are both enjoyable and kind to your wallet.
Whether it's turning your backyard into a summer haven or bringing the excitement of a movie theatre to your living room, the possibilities are endless.
So this summer, embrace the joy of staying in, and make unforgettable memories right at home!
Need more summer at home staycation ideas?
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