There are many great summer activities for kids

As the school year winds down, families begin to shift into summer mode: pools open, camps start, and the long days invite more outdoor play. While summer brings freedom and fun, it can also present challenges. Without structure, some children lose academic momentum, get bored, or miss opportunities for safe, enriching activities. Planning a mix of active play, learning, and social time helps kids stay engaged, grow skills, and create memorable summers.

Communities offer a wide range of summer activities, from public pools and library reading programs to local theater and workshops. Check your town or city website for calendars and program listings. Below are practical, mostly free ideas and websites parents can use to inspire hands-on learning, creativity, and healthy play for children of different ages.

Local resources and summer options

Public libraries, parks and recreation departments, community centers, and faith-based organizations often run free or low-cost summer events. Libraries frequently host reading challenges, story times, and craft sessions. Parks departments schedule sports, nature walks, and day camps. Many retailers and museums also offer seasonal programming geared toward children. Combining these community options with at-home projects keeps kids active and curious throughout the break.

For families who want guided online learning or project ideas, the links and activities below provide a variety of choices: creative arts, STEM challenges, outdoor games, and basic skills practice. Each resource can be adapted to your child’s age and interests.

Summer activities for kids include some of the following websites, classes and workshops:

• Learn how to write a song — Simple, step-by-step guidance for kids interested in songwriting and expressing themselves through music.
• Brain teasers — Puzzles and brain challenges that sharpen reasoning and problem-solving skills.
• Become a photographer — Basic photography tips and projects suitable for young shutterbugs, using a phone or a simple camera.
• Visit a virtual farm — Explore farm life, animals, and agricultural science with interactive tours and activities.
• Create a website (HTML for kids) — Introductory lessons on building a basic web page, a fun project for older children learning digital skills.
• Khan Academy — Free lessons and practice in math, science, reading, and more; good for structured learning at any pace.
• Learn about new sports — Inspiration for trying new sports, learning rules, and finding local programs or drills.
• Learn new outdoor games — Classic and novel playground and backyard games that encourage active play with friends or family.
• Write a fairy tale — Creative writing prompts and ideas for composing original or “fractured” fairy tales.
• Create your own holiday — A lesson-style activity that invites kids to invent and plan a new holiday, exploring traditions and celebrations.

These online resources can be combined with hands-on projects: backyard science experiments, family reading nights, neighborhood scavenger hunts, and art projects using inexpensive supplies. Encourage children to set weekly goals—mixing learning, creativity, and outdoor time keeps summer both fun and productive.

Free summer activities for kids at local stores and organizations:

• Home Depot’s Free Workshops — Hands-on building projects designed for kids, often with free kits and event registration.
• Pottery Barn Kids’ Workshops — In-store craft events and seasonal activities for children.
• Apple Store: Kids Learn How To Make A Movie — Introductory workshops that teach storytelling and basic video production using tablets or phones.
• Free Museum Ticket — Programs that sometimes offer free admission days for families; check local museum offerings and eligibility.
• Barnes & Noble Online Storytime — Virtual story readings and book-related activities for younger children.
• Kids Bowl Free — Local bowling centers that participate in free or discounted youth bowling programs during summer months.

Beyond scheduled events, summer is an ideal time for free play: exploring nature, biking, building forts, and imaginative games. Unstructured play supports creativity, social skills, and emotional development. Balance planned activities with open time so children can relax, experiment, and connect with friends and family.

If you have favorite summer activities, local programs, or resources that have worked well for your family, please share them. Swapping ideas helps other families make the most of the season and keeps kids learning, active, and happy all summer long.