Summer Ideas

Summertime is upon us and parents are eager to find ways to keep their kids occupied for the next three months. Travel may fill some of these 'dog days,' but, for many families, that may only cover two weeks out of the twelve. While children don't need every moment planned, there are many opportunities within most communities that are fun and stimulating for the kids. If you're new to your community, these ideas will also help to get you connected.

Visit The Library
For years now many libraries have had story time for preschoolers, but now it's not uncommon to find your local library providing activities and programs for your baby as well as your teens! From baby board books and summer reading programs to teen advisory councils and family movie nights, there's something for everyone at the library.

Explore Local Museums
Did you know Hawaii is moving toward Japan four inches every year? That's just one of the fascinating facts found on the Arizona Science Center website. Many local museums and science centers now have programs and museum guides for children of all ages, whether they get around in a stroller or on a skate board. Check out museums and science centers in your area and encourage your son or daughter to start a 'museum' collection of his or her own.

Parks and Recreation
Hooray for the City Parks and Recreation Department! For years they have been providing inexpensive sports, day camps, and classes for kids. In addition, many now have teen get-togethers and free movies or music concerts.

Discover Geography
Are you in a new city? What are the things that make it special? How is it different from where you lived before?

Whether or not you are new, take the children for a walk around your neighborhood and look at what makes it unique. Pull out a city map, teach the kids how to read it and decide on a route you will take to visit areas that sound interesting. Read stories about distant places or sing songs to teach geography, for example 'Home on the Range' or 'California, Here I Come.'

Subscribe To Local Publications
Check newspapers for special events, such as free outdoor music festivals or concerts. Many communities host evening concerts in local parks so pack a picnic dinner and enjoy time with your family.

Rainy Day Activities
On days when the weather keeps you indoors, get out the family photo albums and videotapes to reminisce about past family gatherings and events. Prepare an indoor picnic or cook dinner together.

Share Your Plans
Whatever your summer plans are, we at Just Moved! hope that they are full of special times and special memories. E-mail us with your list of summer activities!