Summer Bucket List 2023: 21 Fun Activities for Kids (2024)

Summer is the perfect time for kids to enjoy the great outdoors and make lasting memories. With the school year coming to an end, it's time to start planning some fun activities for your little ones. Whether you're looking for adventure, creativity, or simply some quality time together, we've got you covered with this ultimate summer bucket list for kids.

1. Go on a nature scavenger hunt: Engage your kids in a fun and educational activity by organizing a nature scavenger hunt. Create a list of items for them to find, such as different types of leaves, rocks, or insects. This will not only keep them entertained but also help them develop an appreciation for the natural world around them.

2. Fly a kite: Take advantage of the windy summer days and fly a kite with your kids. It's a classic activity that never gets old and brings a sense of joy and wonder to children of all ages.

3. Make DIY suncatchers: Get creative and make your own suncatchers using colorful beads, pipe cleaners, and string. Hang them in your windows and watch as the sunlight creates beautiful patterns and colors in your home.

4. Go to a park: Visit your local park and let your kids run around, play on the playground, and enjoy some fresh air. It's a simple yet effective way to keep them active and entertained during the summer months.

5. Swing on a hammock or swing: Set up a hammock or swing in your backyard and let your kids relax and enjoy the gentle rocking motion. It's a great way to unwind and spend quality time together as a family.

6. Play hopscotch on the sidewalk: Grab some chalk and draw a hopscotch grid on your sidewalk or driveway. Teach your kids how to play this classic game and watch as they have a blast hopping and jumping from square to square.

7. Make salt dough ornaments: Get your kids' creative juices flowing by making salt dough ornaments. Mix together flour, salt, and water to create a dough, then let your kids shape and decorate their own ornaments. Once they're dry, they can be painted and hung up as decorations.

8. Watch fireworks: Summer is synonymous with fireworks, so find a local fireworks display and take your kids to watch the colorful explosions in the sky. It's a magical experience that they'll remember for years to come.

9. Have a water balloon fight: Beat the heat by organizing a water balloon fight in your backyard. Fill up balloons with water and let your kids go wild, splashing and laughing as they try to soak each other.

10. Visit a zoo or aquarium: Take a trip to a nearby zoo or aquarium and let your kids discover and learn about different animals and marine life. It's a fun and educational outing that will leave a lasting impression.

11. Build a sandcastle: If you're lucky enough to live near the beach, spend a day building sandcastles with your kids. Let their imagination run wild as they create their own mini kingdoms in the sand.

12. Go for a bike ride: Dust off those bikes and go for a family bike ride. Explore your neighborhood or find a nearby bike trail where you can enjoy the fresh air and beautiful scenery together.

13. Have a backyard campout: Set up a tent in your backyard and have a mini camping adventure with your kids. Roast marshmallows, tell stories, and sleep under the stars. It's a great way to introduce them to the wonders of camping without leaving home.

14. Visit a local farm: Take your kids to a local farm and let them interact with farm animals, pick fresh fruits or vegetables, or even go on a hayride. It's a hands-on experience that will teach them about where their food comes from.

15. Have a movie night under the stars: Set up a projector or a large screen in your backyard and have a movie night under the stars. Snuggle up with blankets and pillows, and enjoy a family-friendly movie together.

16. Go on a nature hike: Explore the great outdoors by going on a nature hike with your kids. Choose a nearby trail or park and let them discover the beauty of nature firsthand. Don't forget to bring binoculars and a camera to capture any interesting sights along the way.

17. Have a picnic at the beach: Pack a delicious picnic and head to the beach for a day of fun in the sun. Let your kids play in the sand, swim in the ocean, and enjoy a leisurely meal with the sound of waves crashing in the background.

18. Visit a water park: Cool off and have a splashing good time at a nearby water park. Let your kids slide down water slides, float in lazy rivers, and enjoy various water attractions. It's the perfect way to beat the summer heat.

19. Create a backyard obstacle course: Set up an obstacle course in your backyard using hula hoops, cones, and other objects. Challenge your kids to complete the course and see who can finish it the fastest. It's a fun way to get them moving and active.

20. Have a lemonade stand: Teach your kids about entrepreneurship by helping them set up a lemonade stand in your neighborhood. Let them make their own lemonade and sell it to neighbors and passersby. It's a great way for them to learn about money management and customer service.

21. Visit a local museum or science center: Expand your kids' knowledge and curiosity by taking them to a local museum or science center. Let them explore exhibits, participate in interactive activities, and learn about various topics in a fun and engaging way.

These 21 fun activities will keep your kids entertained and create lasting memories during the summer of 2023. From outdoor adventures to creative projects, there's something for every child to enjoy. So start planning your summer bucket list and get ready for an unforgettable season of fun and laughter with your little ones.

How Do You Make a Summer Bucket List for Kids?

To create a summer bucket list for kids, follow these steps:

1. Brainstorm with your kids: Sit down with your children and ask them what activities they would like to do during the summer. Encourage them to come up with ideas and write them down.

2. Categorize the activities: Divide the activities into different categories such as outdoor activities, indoor activities, educational activities, sports, and arts and crafts. This will give you a better idea of what types of activities you have and help you plan accordingly.

3. Prioritize the activities: Discuss with your kids which activities they are most excited about and prioritize them. This will help you plan your summer schedule and ensure that you have enough time for their favorite activities.

4. Research and plan: Once you have a list of activities, do some research to find out more about each one. Check for any age restrictions, necessary equipment or supplies, and any related costs. Plan out the logistics of each activity, such as dates, times, and locations.

5. Create a visual bucket list: Use a poster board or a large piece of paper to create a visual representation of your summer bucket list. Write down each activity and decorate the poster with pictures or drawings related to each activity. Hang it up in a visible place so that your kids can see it and get excited about crossing off activities as they complete them.

6. Set goals and track progress: Encourage your kids to set goals for each activity. For example, if they want to learn how to ride a bike, their goal could be to ride for a certain distance without training wheels. Keep track of their progress and celebrate their achievements along the way.

7. Be flexible: Remember that a bucket list is meant to be a fun guide, not a strict itinerary. Be open to changes and additions as the summer progresses. If your kids discover new interests or activities, incorporate them into the bucket list.

8. Have fun and enjoy the process: The most important part of creating a summer bucket list is to have fun and enjoy the process. Let your kids take ownership of their list and make it a memorable summer filled with exciting activities and adventures.

Remember, the key is to involve your kids in the planning process and make sure the activities are age-appropriate and enjoyable for everyone involved.

What Should Kids Be Doing in the Summer?

During the summer, it is important for kids to engage in activities that are both fun and beneficial for their development. Here are some suggestions on what kids can do during the summer:

1. Outdoor Play: Encourage children to spend time outdoors and engage in physical activities. They can play on swing sets, climb on jungle gyms, ride bikes, or play games like tag or hide-and-seek. Outdoor play helps in developing motor skills, coordination, and promotes a healthy lifestyle.

2. Visit a Local Playground: Take the kids to a local playground where they can explore different play structures, slides, and swings. This will provide them with an opportunity to socialize with other children and develop their social skills.

3. Organize Picnics: Plan a picnic at a local or state park. Pack some delicious and healthy snacks, sandwiches, fruits, and drinks. Let the kids enjoy their meal in a scenic outdoor setting. This will not only allow them to enjoy nature but also provide an opportunity to bond with friends and family.

4. Explore Nature: Take the kids on a nature walk or hike. Teach them about different plants, animals, and insects they encounter along the way. This will not only enhance their knowledge but also foster a sense of appreciation for the environment.

5. Engage in Arts and Crafts: Encourage creativity by engaging children in arts and crafts activities. Provide them with materials like paints, crayons, paper, beads, and glue to create their own masterpieces. This will help in developing their imagination, fine motor skills, and self-expression.

6. Join Summer Camps: Enroll kids in summer camps that align with their interests. Whether it's a sports camp, music camp, or science camp, these programs provide a structured environment for learning, skill development, and social interaction.

7. Read and Learn: Encourage kids to read books that interest them. Visit the local library and let them choose their own books. Reading helps in improving vocabulary, comprehension, and stimulates their imagination.

8. Discover New Hobbies: Summer is a great time for kids to explore new hobbies. Whether it's learning to play a musical instrument, cooking, gardening, or painting, let them discover their passion and encourage them to pursue it.

Remember, it's essential to strike a balance between structured activities and free play. Allow kids to have unstructured time where they can use their imagination and creativity to come up with their own games and activities. By providing a mix of both planned and unstructured activities, kids can have a fun-filled and enriching summer.

Conclusion

Creating a summer bucket list for kids in 2023 is a wonderful way to ensure they have a fun-filled and memorable summer. By incorporating a variety of activities, both indoors and outdoors, children can stay engaged, active, and continue learning throughout their break from school. From exploring nature, flying kites, and making DIY crafts, to enjoying picnics, playing at the playground, and watching fireworks, there are endless possibilities for summer adventures. By encouraging children to participate in these activities, parents and caregivers can provide them with opportunities for growth, creativity, and socialization. So, start planning your summer bucket list now and get ready for an exciting and fulfilling summer ahead!