Summer is already here, the weather is warming up, the kids are home and parents are frantically searching for ways to keep their kids entertained and out of trouble. Most mothers dread the very thought of school being out, and being faced with the responsibility of entertaining and feeding super- bored, hungry children for the next few weeks. It is indeed a dizzying prospect, if not planned correctly. However, with a little organizing and creativity, it is entirely possible for both you and your children to thoroughly enjoy these lazy, summer weeks together at home.

We have already looked at ideas such as spray painting as well as tie-dying. Well there were many other unique fun-filled ideas begging for attention.

Here goes!

Host a Photo Exhibition

Most children love taking and viewing photos. Why not encourage them? You just might be surprised at how good they are. A digital camera is a must; a hand-me-down model is perfect for kids. For smaller kids a special children’s camera may be better, as the buttons are easier on tiny hands and they are way more durable.

Get your child to identify an area of interest and show them how to create a themed album. Flowers, trees, insects are some quick suggestions for possible summer themes. They will absolutely adore the concept of searching for specific subjects and snapping them from various angles.

When completed, let them display their work in the form of an exhibition. Allow them to mount their favorite pics and create their own photo gallery.

Stage a Puppet Show!

Summer is an excellent time to be creative – most kids love puppets and will thoroughly enjoy staging their own production. You can use sock puppets, finger puppets or even marionettes; whatever you are comfortable with.

This does not require an elaborate expensive set-up, and it can be quite simple. Just cover a chair, bookshelf or even a table with a blanket and voila, you instantly have a puppet theater. For older children or larger puppets, you can make an actual stage from decorated cardboard and add a curtain for the backdrop.

If you have puppets, then great! But if not, then make your own from paper bags, gloves, socks or any other appropriate material. Older children may want to write their own script, as well as stage rehearsals to ensure that they get it right.

Go all out, advertise the show, sell tickets to the family members and offer refreshments during ‘intermission’.

These summer activity suggestions are adaptable for all ages, and can be quick and easy to implement with material you already have in your home. So, the summer holidays are already here, the kids are waiting - its time to go have fun, fun, fun!