Summer vacation always brings so many hopes and dreams. But soon into the season, kids are often complaining that they are bored or you’ve run out of activities to do with them. We’ve compiled a list of local, fun summer activities and ideas so you can help your kids beat summer boredom, without breaking the bank.
Free admission at the Sacramento Zoo
On the first Wednesday of each month the Sacramento Zoo has free admission for children ages 2–11. Up to four children will receive free admission with a paid adult. From giraffes and hedgehogs to river otters and flamingos, this day trip is fun and educational.
Have a picnic in the park
Let your kids help you make and pack a picnic lunch and then go to the park. Make sure to pack a blanket, water, snacks and some type of shaded tent. The kids can play while you relax on the blanket, and then afterward, you can enjoy your picnic lunch together.
Sign up for swim lessons
It wouldn’t be summer without swimming! Sign your child up for a weekly swim lesson or get them into one of our sessions. They will learn important swim and water safety skills that they can use throughout the summer and all year long. Swim lessons start at 4 months old and go through adults. Extra bonus: kids will be tired after all that swimming.
Plant and tend to a garden
Take your kids to your local nursery and let them help you pick out flowers or vegetables to plant. Then show them how to plant and tend to a garden. They can have responsibilities such as watering the plants and picking the vegetables once they’ve grown.
Visit Bayside Cafe and Courtyard
Bayside Church has an indoor play structure where kids can rumble and tumble while mom (or dad) grabs a smoothie and has some time with friends. There is no admission price or fee for kids to play. Coffee and food are available for purchase.
Make homemade cards
This is a good indoor activity for those especially hot days. Get out your calendar and see what birthdays or holidays are coming up. (We know there’s at least Father’s Day.) Supply your kids with crayons, paper, stickers, and any other art supplies you’d like and then make cards for loved ones. They can also make “just because” cards for daddy or grandma and then deliver them another day.
Check out the Roseville Utility Exploration Center
Admission is free and they offer several workshops and events that are also free. The Center promotes education to students and residents about energy and water conservation, stormwater quality and waste reduction to ensure the long-term quality of life, health and well-being of our community. They also offer family events and preschool programs for younger ones.
Catch a flick on the Summer Movie Express
Get out of the heat and take the kids to a cool movie for just a buck! Tickets for select movies are just $1 per person. Click here to find a theatre near you.