Five Free Fun Summer Ideas for Ids

Each year millions of moms (and dads) struggle to entertain their children during the seemingly endless weeks of summer break. Our children have become addicted it seems to highly-stimulating media, such as television, computers and video games. While these electronic options offer an easy and according to some studies educational alternative, they do not allow parents to fully engage with their children. As the mother of six, ranging in age from three to twenty-three, I have seen my fair share of long summer days. Below are a few options of free, fun and environmentally-friendly activities that you can utilize along with these new electronic media to keep your children entertained this summer...and perhaps help them and you to learn something new as well.

1) Good old-fashioned reading. Whether you are reading to your young child, listening to your child read to you or reading and discussing the same book with your teen; this is a past time worth encouraging. You may encounter some resistance at first; 'Mom, who wants to read on summer break?', but selecting an interesting book can solve that problem. J K Rowling did parents the world over a huge favor when she put pen to paper and created a mythical school for young wizards...and re-ignited a passion for reading in another generation. But there are thousands of other young people's authors, who are equally talented; perhaps you and your child will discover one this summer. Of course, libraries and book exchanges means this activity need not cost you anything.

2) Parks/Beach/Mountains or whatever is close to you. When was the last time you packed a picnic lunch and took a surprise visit to your local sites? I have been privileged to live in some rather famous cities, but I have found that no matter how exotic your home, you often take for granted tourist attractions that attract people from around the world. Of course, when you pack that lunch don't forget to take along fun games such as baseballs, badminton, and horseshoes to play after lunch. Also don't assume that the area will have adequate waste disposal; so always take a bag for your refuse to make your fun, free adventure environmentally friendly. This is especially important at the beach, where your garbage can present life-threatening obstacles to marine wild life.

3) A Treasure Hunt...better known as cleaning-up your neighborhood. This one works better with younger children as teens will find it somewhat embarrassing, but even then the lessons of personal responsibility and community spirit may outweigh those concerns. It is simple to do really; just grab a few trash bags and head out to the local streets to pick up rubbish. Of course, you can always separate cans, paper and plastic and sell them at the local recycling center. Then you can use that money to do something else fun or even donate it to your favorite environmental charity. And who knows what else you might find...perhaps even a real treasure?

4) Museums. I know the word alone brings forth visions of staunch and severe halls filled with untouchables, but many museums now cater to younger audiences. One of our favorite places in Los Angeles was the California Science Center. It was an adventure wonderland for children of all ages and only asked for donations. Living in London, we are delighted that all major museums are free of charge. But even in the US, most museums offer one day per month, where they are open free of charge. You can find out when by checking out their website.

5) Talking...and listening. It may seem simple, but when was the last time you took the time to actually talk with your child...not at them. I have always found my children to be fascinating people, even and especially when we disagree. Even my three year old can be prompted to share fascinating stories and recently jokes. Equally important and often forgotten part of conversation is the skill of listening. Listening implies more than simply hearing what is being said, but also opening yourself up to receive unvocalized clues to hidden meanings. It is a skill that we are losing, but one that has high value as our children grow into adulthood. I encourage you to take the time to practice it this summer. Some of my favorite memories from my teens is sitting on the front porch with my step-father and just talking. I have long since forgotten what we talked about, but the warm feelings from that time are vivid a quarter of a century later. I think you will find that your children have strong opinions on many subjects, if you take the time to ask them.

As an adult and a parent, I too often hear others complaining about our children. They are accused of being lazy, stupid and disrespectful...among other things. But I have always found the exact opposite. This generation is intelligent, industrious and for the most part empathetic, but all of these characteristics must be encouraged or we will lose them. So I challenge you this summer to draw yourself away from your laptop and your children away from their video games. Whether you use one of these five free, fun and environmentally-friendly suggestions or one of your own; engage with your child.