10 Fun Things to Do With Your Kids This Summer

1. Swing in a Hammock 
Snuggle close to your child and sway the afternoon away. Look for pictures in the clouds and watch them change, or read books to each other.

2. Do Yard Work Together 
Toddlers can help pull weeds and sprinkle the flowers with a tiny watering can. Have a kid-size rake and a bubble-blowing lawn mower on hand. 

3. Play Dress-Up 
Collect funny hats, gloves, purses, flowing gowns, and "superhero capes" at a garage sale or thrift store. Slip into your new finery, and have a make-believe garden party, Spider Man adventure, or masquerade ball. 

4. Build a Secret Fort 
Drape old sheets over lower tree limbs and clotheslines. Eat dinner there. Stay up chasing fireflies and listening to "night sounds." 

5. Hold a Car Wash 
Park your car in the driveway and let your child give it a good scrub with a pot of water and sponge or with the garden hose. Get the whole family involved for added fun! 

6. Go on a Bug Safari 
Dig for worms, scout for lizards, and hunt for frogs and tadpoles. Marvel at an ant carrying an oversized crumb. 

7. Befriend a Firefighter 
Bake cookies (or pick up some ice pops), and deliver them to your local fire station. The firefighters will appreciate the surprise and your child will meet some heroes, see those awesome trucks up close, and learn a lesson about giving to others. 

8. Chalk it Up 
Everyone loves sidewalk chalk. Use the glow-in-the-dark kind so you and your child can glimpse your artwork from the window at bedtime. 

9. Make Beautiful Music 
Spread a blanket in the backyard for a stage. Ask preschoolers to create (and collect) "tickets" to the big event. Invite kids to bring their instruments and perform -- even your littlest musicians can join in using pots, wooden spoons, and shakers. Set up lawn chairs for the audience, and cheer on your little stars. 

10. Dance in the Rain 
Surprise your kids by taking them outside during a gentle summer shower. Dance around in swimsuits, catch raindrops in your mouth, and jump in all the puddles.

from www.parents.com