Discover 15 fun and easy ideas to keep the kids entertained in summer without getting bored, at home and outdoors!
Summer holidays are one of the most anticipated times of the year for children. However, for many parents, it can be difficult to figure out how to keep them from getting bored. Today, we’re sharing 15 ideas to keep your kids entertained all summer long.
H2: How to entertain children during the summer
Entertaining kids during summer isn’t mission impossible. The key is having a variety of plans and activities so they can do a little bit of everything—and never get bored.
There are also plenty of activities that can stimulate their creativity and support their learning in different areas. Think: board games, cultural outings, or English summer camps, among many other options. Let’s break them down:
H3: 1- Going to the beach or pool
On warm summer days, heading to the beach or pool is a great plan. It’s one of the easiest—and healthiest—ways to entertain children since they can swim, stay active, and socialise with other kids.
To enjoy the sun and water safely, avoid peak sun hours and always apply SPF 50 sunscreen.
You can also boost the fun with some simple games. Think beach paddle games, building sandcastles, floating on inflatables, etc. There are endless fun and engaging activities to keep kids happy all summer.
H3: 2- Playing with water balloons or water guns
One of the most fun outdoor activities for kids is having a water balloon fight or using water guns. It’s a great way to cool off during the summer and encourages movement while reducing screen time and sedentary behaviour.
It’s a great plan for families or for kids to enjoy with friends—ideal for socialising while staying active and entertained.
H3: 3- Doing crafts at home
Kids love arts and crafts. It’s a perfect activity for the hottest hours of the day when it’s not ideal to be outside. For those times, try fun projects like painting T-shirts or eggs, or designing postcards to send to family members.
It’s always a good idea to have a craft box at home filled with things like coloured card, paints, glue, buttons, or fabric scraps. That way, kids can let their imagination run wild and create their own projects while staying away from screens.
H3: 4- Cooking as a family
Cooking together as a family is not only fun—it can be educational too. Even if you're no kitchen expert, you can prepare simple recipes like pizzas, homemade ice cream, or cookies.
These are typically quick and easy recipes for all skill levels. Plus, they help children get familiar with ingredients and might even spark a passion for cooking.
H3: 5- Attending English summer camps
Another excellent way to keep kids occupied and happy during summer is by sending them to English summer camps. There they’ll enjoy fun activities, learn English, spend a week away from home, and make new friends. What more could they ask for?
At English Summer, you’ll find all kinds of camps suited for different ages and interests—day camps or overnight stays, as well as themed camps in various fields.
H3: 6- Growing a home garden
Gardening is another engaging summer activity for kids. It’s trendy, enjoyable, and suitable for both children and adults. And the best part? You don’t need a house. You can grow something small on a balcony—like an avocado plant!
Kids love watching their plants grow, watering them, and eventually harvesting. It connects them with nature and teaches them valuable life lessons.
H3: 7- Home cinema night
On rainy or super-hot days, a great backup plan is having a movie night at home. It’s also more budget-friendly than going to the cinema.
Just pick a family-friendly or animated film, prepare some popcorn or healthy snacks, and you’ve got a cosy, special family moment.
H3: 8- Throwing a themed party with friends
Want to break the routine with something original and fun? Organise a themed party with friends or family. For example, a Mexican fiesta with tacos, nachos, and costumes.
These kinds of events are especially fun for kids when other children join in. Dressing up and face painting are always a hit, and they offer a fun way to shake up the everyday routine.
H3: 9- Trying a new board game
Out of ideas for summer fun? Try introducing a new board game. There are options for all ages—just pick one your kids can play and that matches their interests.
Whether it’s a manual game, card game, or something tactile like Play-Doh, there are plenty of fun options. Popular picks include Uno Junior, a simplified card game perfect for families, and Dobble Kids, a visual speed game where kids find the matching animal between cards. Super fun!
H3: 10- Going on cultural visits
Summer is perfect for outdoor excursions thanks to the long days. Make the most of the holidays with cultural visits to museums, castles, or historical landmarks. Many of these offer free or discounted entry for children.
H3: 11- Going out for ice cream
We know it’s not the healthiest option—but going out for ice cream once in a while won’t hurt. Kids love it, and it’s a lovely excuse for a family stroll. Bonus points if it’s artisan ice cream!
H3: 12- Taking a bike ride
Take advantage of the beautiful summer parks and nature by renting some bikes and enjoying a family ride. It’s a great way to bond, get active, and spend time outdoors.
Tip: find a bike-friendly route to keep things safe. Check if there are scenic trails or parks near you.
H3: 13- Having a picnic in the park
Outdoor plans are usually a hit with children, especially when surrounded by nature. One of the best summer ideas is to organise a picnic in the park.
Pack easy, kid-friendly recipes that always go down well: tortillas, sandwiches, chicken fillets, croquettes, carrot sticks, etc.
Look for parks or picnic areas with tables for more comfort, and try to choose a day with mild weather to make the most of it.
H3: 14- Doing family karaoke
One of the most fun plans to do as a family is singing together. If you’ve got a karaoke machine at home, you’re in luck—get ready for some musical fun with your kids.
You can even invite some of their school friends over to sing their favourite cartoon tunes. Karaoke is a timeless activity that brings endless joy, especially in summer (but also year-round!).
H3: 15- Spending time with family members
Another great way to entertain kids during the summer is to spend time with loved ones. It helps break the routine and makes for great memories. Whether it’s a visit to an aunt’s house or a day with the grandparents, it’s always a win.
Relying on family can offer new and exciting experiences that keep kids entertained and happy. A guaranteed recipe for a memorable summer.
We hope these ideas to keep your children entertained this summer are helpful. Don’t hesitate to give them a try!