Before summer arrives I like to sit down with my kids and talk about some ideas of what we would like to do during summer break. We make a list and highlight things that seem really important. Then we pull out a calendar where I've already added any scheduled travel, appointments, and camps to see what we can make happen.
You don't have to have a large budget to have a fun summer. There are many free or low-cost ideas and activities out there. Plus, the Macaroni KID event calendar is FULL of local family fun as well.
Here are some free or inexpensive ideas to get you started, or to fill in some gaps. Whatever you choose to do, make some memories and have some fun with the kids!
1. Visit Local Parks
We have so many great parks to explore. Different playgrounds, walking trails, and more. Create a list and visit a different one each week all summer long. You can never go wrong with Kiroli Park in West Monroe! Walking and bike trails, and several playgrounds that accommodate different ages.
2. DIY Crafts
Make your own Inventor's Box and let those imaginations soar! (Details Here!)
3. Take a Hike...
From local trails to parish and state parks, there are lots of fun options to get everyone moving. Chemin-A-Haut State Park has beginner walking trails and horseback riding trails. The Bobcat Trail is 1.1 miles, Boy Scout Trail is .25, and the Equestrian Trail is 8 miles.
4. Backyard Camping
This is an easier option (or go all out and plan a camping trip) that will make the kids' summer! Pitch a tent in the backyard and enjoy checking out the stars, and telling stories around a fire pit, and don't forget to roast some marshmallows.
5. Scavenger Hunt
This can be simple or elaborate. Plan one for indoors if the weather is unbearably hot or raining. Plan for one at the park or while hiking and exploring. There's no limit to themes and ideas for scavenger hunts. Scavenger Hunts are our thing and we can't wait to do another one at Kiroli Park! Hundreds of families made lots of memories at the Candy Cane Hunt and The Great Jellybean Hunt!
6. Visit a Splash Pad or Pool
Find local splash pads and pools to visit. Playing in the water is a great way to spend a day together. The Louisiana Purchase Gardens and Zoo has a splash pad! For more cool-down fun (CLICK NOW!)
7. Go Geocaching
Combine this one with your planned hiking trip or bike ride and enjoy a treasure hunt with the kids. Find out how to get started here.
8. Outdoor Movie Night
Check the Macaroni KID event calendar for local community movie events or organize your own outdoor movie night in your yard for your family and friends – invite the neighbors too!
 RDNE Stock Project from Pexels | Canva |
9. Outdoor Games
Teach the kids those childhood favorites such as Red Light, Green Light, and Mother May I, or gather the neighborhood kids for a fun game of tag, hide-and-seek, jump rope, or kickball.
10. Visit the Library
Did you know the local libraries host free events all year long? From storytime events and crafts to movies and themed activities. Don't forget to sign up for their Annual Summer Reading Challenge: Adventure Begins Here!
11. Bike Rides
Get the kids out there on their bikes. Find a bike trail or a park with a nice path or other area with room to ride and enjoy bicycling. Kiroli Park and Highland Wetland Park are the perfect go-to bike trails. Also, did you know that N. 6th Street in the Garden District is now a designated bike path?
12. Community Events
Summer is the perfect time to enjoy local festivals, fairs, farmers markets, and outdoor concerts. You can check the Macaroni KID event calendar for events as well.
13. Science and STEAM Fun
There are lots of simple science experiments and activities you can do with the kids (or set them up to do on their own if they are old enough – tip: a table in the backyard is perfect for potential messes). Some of our favorites include 5 Fun Experiments Kids Can Do with Candy, A DIY Lava Lamp that Will Amaze and Teach Kids, and Make Giant Bubbles in your Backyard!
14. Gardening
Involve the kids in planting a small garden – or even a few pots – with veggies or flowers. Our kids love finding blueberries to eat on our bushes!
15. Try a new sport, maybe a little Disc Golf!
We've got some awesome disc golf courses in Northeast Louisiana! (Get the Scoop!)
16. Have a Picnic
Kids love anything out of the norm. Eating a picnic lunch at the park or anywhere other than at the kitchen table is sure to be a hit. Pack a lunch, pick a place, and GO!
17. Community Service
Volunteer together as a family for community clean-up events, food drives, or other local opportunities to give back to the community.
These activities provide opportunities for kids to have fun, learn, and bond with family and friends while enjoying summer break – and without spending a lot of money. Enjoy your summer adventures!
Jennifer Hill is the publisher of Macaroni KID Fremont, Calif. and Missy Robertson is the publisher of Macaroni KID Monroe-West Monroe
