5 Things To Do With Kiddos This Summer
As summer sets in, sometimes we run out of fun, creative things to do with the kids.
The great thing is that kids don’t need fancy, expensive entertainment. What they really want is love and attention. Here are some simple summer ideas for you and the kids. Each comes with its own scripture for you to share with the kids or even memorize together.
As you connect each activity to scripture, you remind your kids that God is part of our daily lives.
1. Take a field trip or two—and share. Make a family visit to the library (a common one in our house). Or visit the local fire station. Is there a construction site nearby that you can tour? How about visiting a hospital or nursing home to volunteer cheering up the lonely or sick? Wherever you choose to go, take something along for those who live or work there. Lemonade, cookies, cards…get creative!
As you do, remind your kids that they are dearly loved by God, and everywhere they go, they’re passing His love on to others.
“Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience.” (Colossians 3:12)
2. How about a new art project? Make a paint roller by gluing string or yarn around a tin can. Then cover part of your child’s wall with paper or poster board and let him or her paint the wall! Or use small cans, make small designs, and fashion your artwork into cards. You could also check out these free printables!
As your kids create, remind them that we do as everything for the Lord, not for men or even for ourselves. If they think their work doesn’t measure up, remind them that when we use whatever skills we have to the best of our ability, we’re saying thank you to God and blessing others. This is not to be confused with the “everyone gets a trophy” mentality, which tricks kids into thinking that their simple participation makes them honorary. However, it is important to say a simple, “good job,” for participating in using their gifts and talents.
“Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working as for the Lord, not for men.” (Colossians 3:23)
3. Have a character lunch. Let your children choose their favorite book character. Invite them to a character lunch and help them dress, talk, and act as their character. Invite friends over and have each child share about their favorite book and why they chose their character. Check out these books featured on our site for ideas.
As you choose book and characters, remind your kids that knowledge is valuable. God gave us our minds, and He wants us to use them.
“Choose my instruction instead of silver, knowledge rather than choice gold.” (Proverbs 8:10)
4. Play in the rain on a warm summer day. Need I say more? Be spontaneous! Get out and enjoy God’s creation together.
As you enjoy the beautiful world God has made, remind your kids of that fact. Talk about the wonders of creation and nature, and thank Him for such a wonder-full, mysterious gift.
“God’s voice thunders in marvelous ways; he does great things beyond our understanding.” (Job 37:5).
5. Teach your children a new skill. Cross stitch or crochet? Woodwork? Have Dad help out or invite a neighbor who has a skill. Make something for someone.
As you work, remind your kids that there’s joy in work if we know it comes from God. He has given us our abilities and we can share His love when we share with others.
“Let us not grow weary in doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up.” (Galatians 6:9)
______
Laura Lee Groves, a mother of four sons, is the author of I’m Outnumbered! One Mom’s Lessons in the Lively Art of Raising Boys (Kregel), and Pearl, a novel about international adoption. She loves to write, speak, teach, and shares her heart at www.OutnumberedMom.com and www.LauraLeeGroves.com. She is also a contributor here at www.KidsFaithGarden.com.
