August hits and automatically most of us are thinking about back to school already. It’s hard to escape the influx of back to school supplies in stores and cute commercials for back to school clothes on TV. This year, take time to enjoy these last several weeks of summer vacation with your kids and make the most of the time you have together.
5 End-of-Summer Activities to Do as a Family
Host an End of Summer Neighbourhood BBQ!
When I was growing up, I knew every kid on my street. We could often be found riding around on our bikes, playing kick-the-can in our driveways, and shooting hoops long into the evening hours. This kind of neighbourhood community is less and less common these days, and yet it can provide such an invaluable support system for your kids as they grow up. One easy way to get to know your neighbours better is to invite them over for some good old-fashioned hot dogs and burgers on the BBQ. Go ahead – knock on some doors, extend invitations to people you haven’t formally met before. You just might be surprised at how many will accept your offer.
Make Your Own Drive-In Movie
When was the last time you were able to enjoy a drive-in movie? Recreate your own version by renting a projector and speakers and hanging a white sheet over your backyard fence. Have some friends over and split the cost. Choose a family friendly movie that will be entertaining for all ages such as the Princess Bride or Back to the Future. Have everyone bring their own lawn chair or blanket, pop some popcorn and sit back and enjoy the show.
Scope Out a Last Minute Camping Trip
At this time of year it’s actually not too hard to find some last minute deals on campground cancellations near you. Do some calling around and see what you can find that meets your needs. If you have your own RV or tent you have plenty of flexibility. Your kids will be happy with anywhere in the open with some water nearby. If glamping is more your style, see if you can find some yurts or camping cabins featuring more of the creature comforts from home. You might be surprised what you find!
Take Time for a Staycation
Speaking of last minute deals, check out Airbnb or other travel websites to find some last minute hotel deals right in your own city. You are able to set your price and the hotel rating and see what comes up in the results. We’ve done this is the past and usually have good results booking the same day, as hotels want to fill up unoccupied rooms as much as possible. As a result, you become the beneficiaries of a great last minute deal! Young kids love a good waterslide. Hours of built in entertainment without having to leave the building. If you can find a spot with a few good restaurants within walking distance, even better! It’ll feel great just to get out of the house even for a night and you’ll return well rested and much more relaxed.
What are your favourite end of summer activities? Leave a comment below!
XO The Good Enuf Mommy
Tiffany Austin is a mom, a wife, writer, and educator living in Calgary, Canada. Tired of never feeling “good enough” as a new mom, she began The Good Enuf Mommy to encourage other moms to feel confident and empowered in their own decisions. Connect with her on Facebook to read more!
