5 ideas for hosting your own at-home summer camp

As summer continues, working and stay-at-home parents alike will ask themselves: How do I keep my child from being bored this summer break?

Most cities offer summer camp options, but they usually cost money and require transportation. If your family’s budget and schedule don’t allow your children to participate in these, there are plenty of creative and inexpensive ways to create your own summer camp at home that is bound to keep your kids entertained for hours!

Here are five ideas for hosting your own at-home summer camp!

1. Create an obstacle course. You can use blankets, chairs, pillows, etc., to set up an indoor obstacle course. If the weather permits, you can move it outdoors, and use jump ropes, hula hoops, pool noodles or anything else you can find. If your children are old enough, they can create it themselves.

2. Pitch a tent outside. Take the full camping experience to your very own backyard! Set up a tent, get your s’mores ingredients ready and sleep under the stars. Your kids will never forget this unique experience, and the best part is you won’t have to leave your home to give it to them.

3. Arrange a neighborhood parade. Have your children take the lead in organizing a parade around your neighborhood. They can ride their bikes, skateboards, etc., and decorate them to parade them around to some music. Your neighborhood friends can join in the fun, and this can even become a local tradition.

4. Have an outdoor family film night. You can take a movie night to the next level by projecting a family favorite outdoors and watching it under the night sky. If you don’t have the equipment to host one yourself, many parks in our cities host them for families. Be sure to look at your city’s website to locate them.

5. Bring out the tie-dye. Nothing screams summer camp like a good old tie-dyed shirt. Have each family member tie-dye a piece of clothing of their choice. Not only is this activity fun, but it also leaves each member with a memento.

What other activities can you think of to add to your at-home summer camp? Let us know at Arizona PBS KIDS on Facebook.

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About the author

Marissa Will is the mother of two, Olivia (8) and Logan (7). Writing was her first passion: she’s a freelance writer and a Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication alumna. Will is currently educating the future leaders of tomorrow: She has spent over 10 years educating third graders, with a master’s degree in elementary education from Northern Arizona University-Yuma.