Whether kids are toddlers or teenagers, summertime translates to fun adventures – and also a bit of extra planning for caregivers. Luckily, in the DFW area, there’s no shortage of options to keep the family entertained all summer long.
Summertime in Texas is HOT, and the best way to beat that heat is by spending time in the water. Communities often have pools or splash pads available to cool you off on hot days, and there are also several water parks in the metroplex, many only minutes from home. However, if driving to a community splash pad or a water park is not an option, continue the time-honored practice of pulling out the sprinkler and letting the kids play in the water right in your own backyard.
Another tradition of summer is spending time in the outdoors. Did you know that ten or more of our Texas State Parks are close enough for a day trip from DFW? Texas State Parks offer a wide range of outdoor experiences – everything from hiking to swimming to fishing to kayaking, as well as educational opportunities and guided events. Kids and adults alike are sure to find their place to relax and unwind with nature in one of our state parks.
North Texas is also home to a variety of museums, such as the Dallas Museum of Art and the Perot Museum. Most museums offer kid-friendly and, often, interactive exhibits that are sure to spark wonder in the minds of children while also opening conversations and creating learning opportunities for all visitors.
If staying at home is more your speed, or perhaps is a necessity at times, don’t worry! You won’t miss out on all the fun! There are countless ways to create a memorable summer without ever leaving home. Fun at-home summer ideas could include:
• Movie Night – Pick a new movie or a classic family favorite, pop some popcorn, and curl up together to enjoy a relaxing night. Elevate the experience with a theme for the night, like watching a sports movie while eating ballpark food for dinner.
• Game Night – Pull out the board games and relive some of the family’s old favorites. Friendly competition is sure to be entertaining – and many classic games like Yahtzee or Scrabble allow parents to sneak in some learning opportunities as well.
• Get Creative – There is no shortage of craft ideas online for all skill levels, and many suggestions use simple household items, such as paper plates, cotton swabs, or sponges.
• Try Your Green Thumb – Whether organizing an entire garden or simply watching seeds germinate in cups on your windowsill, having a hand in growing a plant is an enjoyable and educational experience for kids and adults alike. Summertime planning doesn’t have to be difficult or expensive. And while a big family vacation is a great idea, it’s important to remember that you don’t necessarily have to leave home to find fun this summer. After all, sometimes the simplest family time is how the best memories are created.
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