Summer is right around the corner, and whether you're ready or not, here it comes! My family and I are always on the lookout for budget-friendly summer activities to break up the monotony of the long days. Sure, we can head to the museums and zoos and maybe a family trip, but the everyday can get a little cuckoo. If they ask for one more snack....well, we might all just lose it. HA! Here are a few summer activities which not only break up the routine but also bring connection. These are all-family-in types of activities – the best kind!

Start the summer by having each person create their own memory box! Start with a DIY Tin Box and decorate with foam adhesive stickers. (Like these or these!) Add in a DIY Message in a Bottle and your own memorabilia as the summer progresses.

Give each family member their own canvas and put out lots of art supplies. Now turn on some music and just have fun and get busy creating! I love this Rainbow Art Party from Sweetly Chic Events. The kids will feel so inspired to start creating their own masterpieces!
See the Party
Start by painting a canvas board blue so the white sand will show up. Once the paint has dried, trace each person's handprint onto the canvas board. Add Mod Podge inside the outline and sprinkle the white sand over the glue. You can add some white freshwater shell beads for more decoration. Something simple and not too busy.

Want to spend some time visiting other countries and exploring other cultures? Why not do it virtually?! I love these ideas from Haeley Giambalvo! Seriously – it's a fun and educational activity all rolled into one.
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After reading one of your family's favorite books, host a dinner around that book's theme. I love this party based on the book "Where the Wild Things Are". There's no right or wrong way, so don't be afraid to get crazy and creative with it.
See the Party
Paint a canvas board blue and then outline the first letter of your last name. Add Mod Podge for the sand to stick to and then sprinkle the sand over it. This is a great project to do as a family, and kids may find they want to do the initials for their first names, too!

If you're a teacher, share this free printable handout with your students' parents so they'll be loaded with summer ideas, too! Not a teacher? Share it with your friends!