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10 Best Summer Staycation Ideas

With the hustle and bustle of everyday life, it can be easy to forget what we have at home. So, your Li’l Woodzeez friends have come up with a list of 10 fun things to do at home and in your area! There’s so much to explore this summer. From visiting local attractions to building a retreat in your backyard, there are so many ways to make the season more exciting.

1. Taste the World

Pick a country and create a mini menu of its most iconic foods. This can be as simple as grabbing a few French cheeses from the market, or as extensive as cooking a Nigerian Jollof from scratch! Get your kiddos involved in your research and learn about the food’s origins together. The key is to try something totally new!

2. Go on a Nature Scavenger Hunt

You may have gone on a few trails, but have you taken the time to really get to know them? Create a checklist of things to find, such as flowers, birds, acorns, and paw prints, then give it to your child to help them explore – like this printable scavenger hunt from Li’l Woodzeez. Visit a local park or a trail, then check off all the wonderful things your kiddo finds!

3. Go Camping in the Backyard

Mix up your daily routine by spending the night in the backyard. That’s right – set up a tent and pretend to go camping! Bring a lantern or string lights for extra-special story-time, and, if you have a firepit, indulge in some tasty s’mores.

4. Visit an Animal Sanctuary

Who doesn’t want to pet a llama? Not only is this activity adorable, but educational for kids and grown-ups alike. It’s a great way to learn about different animals while encouraging compassion, gentleness, and bravery. Plus, it’s a great way to spend the day outdoors!

5. Have a Backyard Movie Night

If you can get your hands on a projector, make your very own outdoor movie theatre! Use a white curtain or sheet for a screen, then lay down some blankets and cushions to get comfortable. You can even go the extra mile with string lights, pool floaties, and a buffet table. Don’t forget the snacks!

6. Go to the Library

Get your library cards and find hundreds of books you can borrow for free! Many libraries do more than books, too. You can participate in story-times, craft workshops, and all kinds of special activities free of charge. Some places might also lend sporting equipment and toys to help keep you busy this summer.

7. Picnic at the Beach

Make the most of the waterfronts in your area! Be it a lake, river, or outdoor pool, make a day of it by packing up a tasty lunch and lots of water. Build your own oasis with a shady umbrella, beach chairs, and waterproof toys at the ready.

8. Visit a Local Museum

Museums let you travel the world and even back in time! Make a point to check one out this summer to broaden your horizons. Lots of museums have interactive exhibits that help to keep kids engaged and discover how things work.

9. Make Crafts

Bring out your inner artists with homemade arts and crafts! Think watercolor paintings, play dough, beaded bracelets, and simple origami. To make things easier for you, many craft stores sell kits with everything your kiddo will need in one box. Instructions and materials included!

10. Create an Obstacle Course

Bring out the hoola hoops, skipping ropes, and pool noodles for a homemade obstacle course! Kids can lead the charge with this activity. Get creative with every challenge you make together. Then run, jump, hop, skip, and roll the day away!

Happy staycation! What do you think of our list? Let us know how you like to keep your summers busy in the comments below.