The arrival of summer is a momentous day for children. Summer means school is closed and weeks of rest, recreation, and fun in the sun are on the schedule.

Although summer may start off with a bang, it may not be too long before kids are uttering the dreaded, "I'm bored," leaving parents and caregivers looking for ways to keep children occupied. Having a list of activities at the ready can help families stay active and engaged during the dog days of summer.

Poolside Play

A backyard pool offers instant summer fun, especially when families rotate swimming days with friends. Add simple games like water volleyball or diving for toys to keep things fresh. Keep drinks and snacks nearby to avoid soggy footprints indoors. No pool? A community pool is a great way to stay cool and socialize with neighbors.

Host a Movie Night

The dog days of summer tend to be humid, hot, and sometimes uncomfortable. Scheduling activities for later in the day makes the most of the weather that has cooled off a bit. Purchase or borrow a projector that hooks up to a computer or tablet, and set up a screen in the yard. Stream a family-friendly movie and prepare ready-made bags of popcorn or cotton candy for the show.

Add a Splash

Make classic backyard games summer-ready with a splash of water. Swap bean bags for water balloons in cornhole, or reroute tag through a sprinkler. Let kids design a DIY obstacle course using pool noodles and tires — bonus points for turning noodles into soaking tunnels with a garden hose.

Go on a Scavenger Hunt

Whether at a beach, park, or even walking the neighborhood, families can have a list of objects that must be found. The first child to find all of the items on the list gets a prize, such as choosing which ice cream shop to visit.

Backyard Camping Adventure

Transform your yard into a mini wilderness escape. Pitch a tent, roast marshmallows over a portable fire pit or grill, and tell stories under the stars. Add glow sticks and a scavenger hunt for nighttime flair.

Sidewalk Chalk Gallery

Encourage kids to turn the driveway or sidewalk into a rotating art exhibit. Give them themes like “Underwater World” or “Dream Vacation” and let their imaginations run wild. Bonus: host a neighborhood “chalk walk” to showcase their creations.

Frozen Toy Excavation

Freeze small toys in a bowl of water overnight. The next day, give kids tools like spoons, droppers, or spray bottles with warm water to “excavate” the treasures. It’s sensory play meets archaeology.

Make a Bird Feeder

Use recycled materials like toilet paper rolls, peanut butter, and birdseed to craft feeders. Hang them in the yard and keep a journal of bird sightings — a quiet activity with a nature twist.

DIY Science Day

Set up a backyard science lab with simple experiments like baking soda volcanoes, homemade slime, or water bottle rockets. It’s messy, educational, and wildly entertaining.

Picnic with a Twist

Let kids pack their own lunches and choose the location — even if it’s just the backyard. Add a twist by inviting stuffed animals or creating a “restaurant” vibe with menus and table service.

Backyard Talent Show

Give kids a stage (a blanket or patio works!) and let them perform dances, songs, jokes, or magic tricks. Invite neighbors or family to be the audience and hand out silly awards like “Best Dramatic Pause” or “Most Enthusiastic Wiggle.”

Families have plenty of ways to fill the dog days (and nights) of summer with entertaining games and other activities.