Top 7 Family Activities for Summer
At Play & Eats, we’re all about creating joyful moments with our motto, “Munch, Play, Celebrate!” Summer is the perfect time to make memories with your kids, and our top 7 family activities for summer are designed to spark fun and connection for families with kids aged 3-12. Whether you’re planning outdoor adventures or cozy indoor days, these activities are parent-friendly and kid-approved, especially for busy moms.
Each activity comes with a recommended product to enhance the fun, plus pros, cons, and tips to plan your summer. Ready to make this summer unforgettable? Let’s dive into the best family activities for summer!
1. Family Picnic with a Portable Picnic Blanket
Price: ~$38.99
Why we love it: A picnic in the park or backyard is a classic summer activity. Pair it with a waterproof picnic blanket for comfort and easy cleanup. Kids can help pack snacks and play games like frisbee afterward.
Benefits: Encourages outdoor time, family bonding, and healthy eating.
Pros:
- Simple to plan with minimal prep.
- Blanket is portable and machine-washable.
- Flexible for any location (park, beach, yard).
Cons:
- Weather-dependent; requires a backup plan.
- Blanket may be small for larger families.
Related: Pack our Top 7 Gluten-Free Snacks for Kids for your picnic!
2. Backyard Scavenger Hunt with a Nature Journal
Price: ~$9.99
Why we love it: A scavenger hunt gets kids exploring nature, searching for leaves, rocks, or bugs. A nature journal lets them draw or write findings, blending fun with learning.
Benefits: Boosts observation skills, creativity, and physical activity.
Best for: Curious kids and backyard adventures. Great for sibling teams.
Pros:
- Low-cost and easy to set up.
- Journal encourages reflection and creativity.
- Adaptable for any outdoor space.
Cons:
- Younger kids may need adult guidance.
- Limited replay value without new clues.
Related: Try our Top 7 Educational Toys for Kids for more learning fun!
3. DIY Summer Craft Day with a Craft Kit
Price: ~$19.99
Why we love it: A craft kit (like tie-dye or painting) keeps kids busy creating art. It’s perfect for rainy days or indoor bonding, with supplies included for mess-free fun.
Benefits: Enhances creativity, fine motor skills, and teamwork.
Best for: Artistic kids and family craft parties. Ideal for group projects.
Pros:
- All-in-one kit simplifies planning.
- Projects are engaging for all ages.
- Creations become keepsakes.
Cons:
- Can be messy without supervision.
- Some kits have limited supplies.
Related: Snack while crafting with our Top 7 Gluten-Free Snacks for Kids!
4. Water Balloon Fight with Reusable Water Balloons
Price: ~$36.99 (12pcs)
Why we love it: A water balloon fight is a refreshing summer blast. Reusable water balloons are eco-friendly, easy to fill, and safe for kids to toss.
Benefits: Promotes active play, teamwork, and cooling off.
Best for: Hot days and group fun. Perfect for backyard or park play.
Pros:
- Reusable balloons save money and reduce waste.
- Soft material is safe for young kids.
- Quick to refill for nonstop fun.
Cons:
- Requires access to water and buckets.
- May not be durable for rough play.
Related: Cool off with our Top 7 Outdoor Toys for Kids!
5. Family Movie Night with a Portable Projector
Price: ~$89.99
Why we love it: Set up an outdoor movie night with a portable projector for a magical evening. Kids can pick films, and parents can relax under the stars.
Benefits: Encourages family bonding, relaxation, and shared entertainment.
Best for: Evening fun or sleepovers. Great for indoor backup plans.
Pros:
- Portable projector is easy to set up.
- Works on walls, sheets, or screens.
- Creates a cinema-like experience.
Cons:
- Higher cost than other activities.
- Requires dark conditions for best viewing.
Related: Munch during movies with our Top 7 Gluten-Free Snacks for Kids!
6. Bubble Party with a Bubble Machine
Price: ~$37.99
Why we love it: A bubble machine creates a magical flurry of bubbles for kids to chase and pop. It’s low-effort, high-fun, and perfect for outdoor parties.
Benefits: Boosts active play, sensory development, and joy.
Best for: Young kids and group gatherings. Ideal for birthdays or playdates.
Pros:
- Automatic machine requires no adult effort.
- Safe, non-toxic bubble solution included.
- Appeals to all ages for inclusive fun.
Cons:
- Requires batteries (not included).
- Bubble solution refills add cost.
Related: Plan a bubble party with our Party Ideas tips!
7. Family Cooking Day with a Kids’ Cooking Kit
Price: ~$32.99
Why we love it: A kids’ cooking kit (with safe utensils and recipes) lets families whip up summer treats like smoothies or mini pizzas. It’s a tasty way to bond indoors.
Benefits: Teaches cooking skills, teamwork, and healthy eating.
Best for: Foodie families and rainy days. Great for sibling collaboration.
Pros:
- Kid-safe tools ensure safety.
- Recipes are simple and fun.
- Builds lifelong skills.
Cons:
- Requires adult supervision for young kids.
- Cleanup can be time-consuming.
Related: Pack pouches for our Top 7 Outdoor Toys for Kids
Why Family Activities Are Key in Summer
Summer is a golden opportunity for family bonding, with kids out of school and warm weather inviting outdoor fun. A 2024 Family Leisure Study found that 85% of parents prioritize shared activities to boost kids’ creativity and social skills. Families are embracing activities that blend education, adventure, and relaxation. Here’s why these activities matter:
- Build bonds: Shared experiences strengthen family ties.
- Spark creativity: Crafts and games inspire imagination.
- Promote health: Outdoor activities encourage movement.
- Create memories: Simple moments become lifelong treasures.
For more summer fun, check out our Top 7 Outdoor Toys for Kids or fuel up with Top 7 Gluten-Free Snacks for Kids!
How to Choose the Best Family Activity for Summer
Planning summer fun is easy with these tips:
- Match interests: Pick crafts for creative kids or water balloons for active ones.
- Consider ages: Bubble machines suit toddlers; cooking kits fit older kids.
- Plan for weather: Have indoor backups like movie nights or crafts.
- Keep it simple: Picnics and scavenger hunts need minimal prep.
- Involve everyone: Movie nights and cooking engage the whole family.
For more ideas, explore our Party Ideas or get parenting advice from Parenting Tips!
Conclusion
The top 7 family activities for summer bring families closer with fun, laughter, and memories. From picnics to cooking days, these ideas make every moment special. Shop our recommended products on Amazon to get started. At Play & Eats, we live by “Munch, Play, Celebrate!”—so grab your kids, pick an activity, and make summer unforgettable.
Which activity will your family try? Share in the comments or on Pinterest! For more summer fun, check out our Top 7 Educational Toys for Kids or Top 7 Gluten-Free Snacks for Kids.
Disclosure: PlayEats.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com.
