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Finish the Summer Well: 50 Summer Bucket List Ideas for Kids

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When I was a kid I spent most of my summer days outside. Even though I was a big reader and thought curling up on the couch made a perfect day, I was outside a lot. Why? my mom kicked me outside, and she LOCKED the door. I had to find places to go and things to do. Can you relate?

As a mom I worry when my kids don’t want to be outside too. With eight kids at home sometimes I hear, “I’m bored.” This means two things: 1. “Mom, entertain me” or 2. “Mom, I want to play on my tablet/watch TV.”

Even though I haven’t tried it on my kids, I understand why my mom locked me out. Summer days are perfect for connecting with God in nature and with each other. That doesn’t happen glued to the electronics.

Are you ready to finish your summer well? Here are fifty summer bucket list ideas of your kids. Cut out the options and put them in a bucket. Pull out one each day. Or pick your top ten favorite things to do before summer ends.

Finish your summer well! @TriciaGoyer shares 50 summer bucket ideas:

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Don’t just think of them as activities to mark off a list. Instead, be diligent to use these ideas to connect with God in nature and connect with friends and family. As you do you’re creating wonderful summer memories!

50 Summer Bucket List Ideas

  1. Pick berries
  2. Make a bird feeder from pinecones, peanut butter and bird seed
  3. Start a bug collection
  4. Visit a farm
  5. Throw rocks in a pond
  6. Walk through a forest
  7. Visit a nature museum
  8. Photograph rainbows
  9. Start a bug collection
  10. Roast marshmallows
  11. Visit an aquarium
  12. Hike a trail
  13. Press flowers
  14. Catch frogs and lizards
  15. Record bird calls
  16. Chase fireflies
  17. Study the stars
  18. Go fishing
  19. Plant a garden
  20. Build a fort

Get the rest of the bucket list at thebettermom.com

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Disclosure of Material Connection: Some of the links in the post above are “affiliate links.” This means if you click on the link and purchase the item, I will receive an affiliate commission. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will add value to my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.” Read full privacy policy here.

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22 Great Summer Reads for Your Kids!

Do+you+want+to+help+your+kids+dive+into+some+great+reading+this+summer-+We've+got+an+amazing+line+up+of+books+for+boys+and+girls+of+all+ages!+Come+pick+some+of+our+favorite+titles+and+get+lost+in+these+stories+together!

I’m a mom of ten kids and a book addict. This means we do a lot of reading! I’ve gathered a list of some of our favorite books. These are perfect for summer reading.

Boys ages 6–12

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Henry Huggins Series by Beverly Cleary

Book 1: Henry Huggins
Book 2: Henry and Beezus
Book 3: Henry and Ribsy

Beverly Cleary was one of my favorite authors growing up, and I still love reading her books to my kids. This series is about a young boy named Henry and the adventures with his family, friends, and dog, Ribsy. The first book was published in 1950, and the series led to the Ramona Quimby books. The adventures are fun and my kids loved the trouble Henry often found himself in (but also got out of!).

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Hank the Cowdog series by John Erickson

The Original Adventures of Hank the Cowdog
The Further Adventures of Hank the Cowdog

A little bit of mystery, a little bit of fun, and a whole lot of humor is how I’d describe these books. Hank is a cowdog on a large range, and he’s clueless. It’s fun listening to these books on audio because I’ve found my kids shouting at the CD player as they try to clue-in Hank to what’s really going on.

Girls ages 6–12

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The Betsy-Tacy Books

Book 1: Betsy-Tacy
Book 2: Betsy-Tacy and Tib
Book 3: Betsy and Tacy Go Downtown

I first heard about the Besty-Tacy books from two librarian friends. First published in the 1940s these books are the true-to-life stories of friends growing up at the turn of the 20th century. The books start when Betsy is 5 years old and meets Tacy, a new friend from across the street. The stories follow the girls from age 5 all the way to Betsy’s wedding! I’ve read these books to my daughters, ages 5 and 8, and my son, who is 5. They got wrapped up in the characters. We are currently finishing up the last book, and the girls have asked to start again! These books are delightful.

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The Little House Books by Laura Ingalls Wilder

Book 1: Little House in the Big Woods
Book 2: Little House on the Prairie
Book 3: Farmer Boy

These were my all-time favorite books growing up, and I’m still a huge fan! These books are different (even better!) than the television series that some of us watched as kids, and they are inspired by the Laura’s real life growing up on the American prairie.

Pre-Teen and Teen Girls

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Katie Parker Productions by Jenny B. Jones

Book 1: In Between
Book 2: On the Loose
Book 3: The Big Picture

I read this series out loud to my preteen and teen girls, and we were all laughing hard! Memorable characters and strong Christian morals. The main character Katie is in foster care, and the books brought out a lot of wonderful conversations with my kids.

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River of Time Series by Lisa Tawn Bergren

Book 1: Waterfall
Book 2: Cascade
Book 3: Torrent

My teen daughter seemed unimpressed by my collection of Christian fiction, yet when she scanned the shelves these books caught her eye. She’s not much of a reader, but she asked me to buy all the books on the series. Since then she’s moved on to other Lisa Tawn Bergren books!

Pre-Teen and Teen Boys

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The Chronicles of Narnia by C.S. Lewis

Book 1: The Magician’s Nephew
Book 2: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe
Book 3: The Horse and His Boy

I can’t count the number of times John has read these books out loud to our kids. When each one gets around seven or eight we tell each other, “They’re old to start Narnia now!” They’re also wonderful chapter books for pre-teens and teens to read on their own.

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Prayers that Changed History by Tricia Goyer

As a homeschooling mom I loved coming across moments in history when something important was changed because of prayer. In 1999 I started collecting these stories. I added to the file through the years, and the book is finally published! InPrayers That Changed History, the stories of twenty-five notable people are presented along with how prayer changed their lives and changed history. Following each historical example is a biblical story that ties to that person’s life and actions, as well as ways children can use the power of prayer in their lives as well.

What about you? What’s on your summer reading list?

Stop by thebettermom.com to read the original post!

Summer is officially here! Keep your kids reading with this great list from @TriciaGoyer

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Disclosure of Material Connection: Some of the links in the post above are “affiliate links.” This means if you click on the link and purchase the item, I will receive an affiliate commission. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will add value to my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.” Read full privacy policy here.

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FREE Summer Printables for Your Kids

FREE summer printables for your kids

Summer is here and one of my favorite things is spending time in nature and teaching my kids how to enjoy God’s creation. To do this better my daughter-in-law and I created some printables! You can download them here.

We’ve also created a large pack of printables that you can buy for $4.50. 

This pack includes 27 printables to be used for creating and connecting with God’s creation this summer. These pages are mostly in black and white for cheaper printing (for mom) and because coloring is fun (for kids!).

Some of these pages can be laminated to be used over and over, such as the bingo or scavenger hunt cards.

The June, July, and August pages are “bucket” lists for your kids for that month, but feel free to be creative! For example, if you don’t live near a beach or a forest use your imagination to “pretend” you are doing these activities. Color in the ones you complete. The goal to to help children enjoy God’s creation.

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This packet includes:

  • June, July and August bucket list activities
  • a word find
  • a natural journal sheet
  • color today’s weather sheet
  • outdoor counting sheets
  • color sheet
  • nature drawing templates
  • gratitude prayer sheet
  • cut, glue, and create scenes
  • nature scavenger hunt sheet
  • nature bingo sheet
  • word match
  • picture find
  • and Scripture color sheets

Here are a few sneak peaks at some of the printables:

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I hope you and your kids will enjoy them!

In need of summer activity ideas for your kids? Check out @TriciaGoyer’s printables on @TpTdotcom

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Are you new here? You might want to subscribe to my email updates, or follow me on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Google+, or Instagram.


Disclosure of Material Connection: Some of the links in the post above are “affiliate links.” This means if you click on the link and purchase the item, I will receive an affiliate commission. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will add value to my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.” Read full privacy policy here.

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Rules for Outings: The ABCs of Safety and Manners {+ FREE printable}

Rules for Outings, the ABCs of Safety and Manners

One of the biggest mistakes I’ve made as a mom was to expect what I haven’t taught. I’d take my kids out and expect them to know not to ask the lady sitting next to us at the park for part of her lunch. Or expect them to know that they shouldn’t run and scream in a store or touch in an art museum. How WOULD my kids know that if I didn’t teach them? The teaching and training is part of being a parent.

One of the biggest successes I’ve had as a parent is when I’ve prepared my kids for what’s to come. I’ve given them “rules of conduct”–not to be a dictator, but instead for the sake of safety and manners.

Keep your kids safe during outings! Follow @TriciaGoyer’s ABCs of safety & manners

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These aren’t rules to be shared one time and forgotten. Instead, they are ones that should be read through often as reminders. (In the beginning you might want to read over them every time that you go out.) Knowing these rules will prepare your children so they’ll be able to enjoy the day and have fun … and so will you!

I’ve included a printable for you to print, use, post, and share. May all your summer outings be less stressful and more safe because of it!

Rules for Outings

  • Ask permission from your parent before you leave the group.
  • Be respectful and polite. “Please” and “Thank You” never go out of style.
  • Consider others before yourself. Take turns.
  • Do put garbage in a trash can. Leave the place as you find it … or better!
  • Everyone will be fed. If you are hungry or thirsty let us know. Don’t ask other people for their food. Don’t accept food or offer food to others without permission.
  • Fighting is for boxers in the ring. Treat others as you want to be treated.
  • Go slow. When inside only walk, unless you have permission to run.
  • Hold open doors for those following you.
  • If you can’t see me, I can’t see you. Get to where you can see me!
  • Joking and playing is not always appropriate. Consider the place and situation.
  • Keep your hands to yourself. In museums, and other special places, you often have to look only with your eyes, not your hands.
  • Look and wait if you’re lost. If you get separated from the group ask someone who works there for help and stay put.
  • Make peace not war. Respect your siblings’ private spaces and don’t irritate them.
  • Never be alone with a stranger, even if they appear friendly.
  • Obey your parents the very first time. Say “Yes, mom” or “Yes, dad” to show you heard them.
  • Partner up. Always stick with your buddy.
  • Quietly listen. If someone is talking, wait to ask your questions.
  • Respond to others when asked a question.
  • STOP is the most important word, especially outside. When an adult says that, you do it, and ask questions later.
  • Try something new. Embrace the opportunity.
  • Use inside voices when inside.
  • Volunteer to help when you see a need.
  • Watch your gawking. Don’t stare, even if they stared first.
  • X-pect to carry your own things. If you bring it, you carry it.
  • You should go to the bathroom before we leave. Don’t wait until the last minute. Let us know when you have to go.
  • Zero complaining. Smile and have fun!

Download the printable here!

rules for outings - the abcs of safety

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30 Fun & FREE Summer Activities

30 fun and FREE summer activies

School’s out for summer (or will be soon!) and so begins the frantic brainstorm of what to do with our kids without spending a fortune. With help from my Facebook followers and Pinterest, here are 30 fun and FREE things to do this summer with your kids:

  1. “Little bit” party
  2. Puzzles
  3. Explore your neighborhood
  4. Board games
  5. Attend movies in the park—Paul B.
  6. Take advantage of your local museums’ free days—Wendy H.
  7. Weed a community flower bed—Susan K.
  8. Take a factory tour—Laureen H.
  9. Do a treasure hunt around your neighborhood—Nancy B.
  10. Make a chalk mosaic on your sidewalk—Jennifer C.
  11. Go camping . . . in your own backyard—Paul B.
  12. Take advantage of summer programs at your library—Shelly D.
  13. Visit your local fire department for a tour—Laureen H.
  14. Let your kids bowl for free with this website—Karen I.
  15. Visit a nursing home and play games with a resident—Lyn P.
  16. Have a backyard picnic—Michelle S.
  17. Decorate mugs with permanent markers, then bake for 30 minutes at 350 degrees (Pin)
  18. Make watermelon cookies (Pin)
  19. Make balloon ninjas (Pin)
  20. Craft some book-page envelopes (Pin)
  21. Create cards to send to loved ones (Pin)
  22. Try a fun science project (Pin)
  23. Make colorful bathtub ice cubes (Pin)
  24. Prepare for Christmas early and make these photo tags (Pin)
  25. Paint old photo frames (Pin)
  26. DIY magazine boxes that can be used to store magazines, kids’ books, and binders (Pin)
  27. Have some fizzy fun with your kids from items already in your kitchen (Pin)
  28. Make your own rubber stamps (Pin)
  29. Play backyard Twister (Pin)
  30. Take advantage of this wonderfully curated list (Pin)

Do you have a favorite activity to add to the list? Share in the comment section below!

Looking for FREE summer fun ideas for your family? Check out @TriciaGoyer’s list:

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Are you new here? You might want to subscribe to my email updates, or follow me on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Google+, or Instagram.


Disclosure of Material Connection: Some of the links in the post above are “affiliate links.” This means if you click on the link and purchase the item, I will receive an affiliate commission. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will add value to my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.” Read full privacy policy here.

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86 Creative Activities for Pre-Teens & Teens {Plus Printable!}

86 Creative Activities for Pre-Teens & Teens {Plus Printable!}

Tricia Goyer shares 86 Creative Activities for Pre-Teens & Teens {Plus Printable!} If you're tired of hearing the words, “I'm bored" ...

 

If you’re a mom, you’ve probably already heard the words, “I’m bored.” As a mom of pre-teens and teens it’s easy to give in to electric devices to entertain kids. It’s harder to come up with creative ways for them to keep themselves occupied. Well, I’ve found lots of things kids can do to pass time and stay entertained. Here are 86 of them!

 

86 Creative Activities for Pre-Teens & Teens {Plus Printable!}

 

  • Paint with Watercolors

I recently started painting with watercolors and I love it! I’ve been experimenting with several different paints and brushes. You can find my favorites here: Tricia’s Favorite Watercolor Supplies

 

Creative Activities for Pre-Teens

  • Bake cookies

  • Collect leaves and rocks

  • Work on a puzzle

  • Study the Bible

  • Practice photography

    Creative Activities for Pre-Teens

 

  • Work on learning a new language

  • Play a board game

  • Memorize a Scripture verse

  • Create an art journal

  • Make play dough

  • Create chalk drawings outside

  • Pack a picnic

  • Make puppets

  • Work with beads

  • Train a dog

    Creative Activities for Pre-Teens

 

  • Exercise

  • Ride a bike

  • Try a new hairstyle

  • Paint your nails

  • Make a cake

  • Look through a cookbook (pick out things to make and make a shopping list!)

  • Play with marbles

  • Water the flowers and weed the flower beds

  • Draw a self-portrait

  • Create a treasure hunt with clues for your parents and/or siblings

  • Write in your journal (see more below about this!)

 

Creative Activities for Pre-Teens

 

  • Work on a short story or novel

  • Interview a parent or sibling

  • Tie-dye a shirt

  • Make ice cream

  • Observe objects in your microscope

  • Paint rocks

  • Plan a scavenger hunt

  • Crochet

  • Sew

My girls had fun learning to sew this spring. We made aprons for each of them. It was a fun activity that taught them a valuable life-skill in the process. Now they are more than capable of sewing projects on their own or even mending clothing.

 

Creative Activities for Pre-TeensCreative Activities for Pre-Teens86 Creative Activities for Pre-Teens & Teens {Plus Printable!}

 

  • Make a duct tape rose

  • Have a relay race

  • Play hangman

  • Run through the sprinklers

  • Play with bubbles

  • Play with Legos

  • Do a science experiment

  • Sing songs with a sibling

  • Play catch

The 2 words parents dread, “I’m bored!” @TriciaGoyer has a solution here:

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Download the printable below for the full list of activities!

Creative Activities for Pre-Teens

 

And more!

My Stay Home Journals Help Kids Focus on Good Things!

My stayhome journal

 

Kids need a place to think, write, or draw what is going on in their hearts and minds so I created these journals to provide kids a special place to record their experiences. I like the sound of “stay home.” It’s a way to focus on the good during a hard time. It’s a great way to help your kids think about what good things may be happening during this time and what they are looking forward to when it’s “safe” for us to return to normal life.

The pages are set up so older kids can write their thoughts (writing practice!) and younger kids can draw their thoughts or have a parent write for them. Need inspiration? Check your Facebook or personal calendar to help think about what your family was doing at certain points on the timeline. I made the insides colored as well so these can be special keepsakes of this great pause in our history.
I’ve designed several styles so every child can have a journal that makes them feel special.
  My stayhome journal

You can find all the journals I’ve created here: Stay Home Journals

I even created a FREE printable version. Feel free to share with a teacher or someone who might need it.

Free Stay Home Journal

https://bit.ly/freejournalforkids

My stayhome journal

 

 

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