School is finally out and summer break is here. While this is the best news ever to your child, this is possibly a nightmare for you as a parent. You’re certainly wondering how you’re going to keep them entertained, engaged and off screens all summer. Well don’t worry, there is plenty of summer fun to be had with a wide range of activities you and your kiddos will love. So whether you’re a local, or just visiting for a short time, there are plenty of ways to make this summer one to remember. Here are some fun, educational, and screen-free ideas to keep your kids busy—and one activity you absolutely don’t want to miss: visiting the Boca Aquarium!

1. Explore the Boca Aquarium: A Must-Visit Family Destination

Looking for a hands on family friendly destination that your kids will love? This outing is both fun and educational for everyone! You definitely shouldn’t miss the Boca Aquarium.  This aquarium features colorful marine life exhibits, touch tank events and live shark feeding events, and free tours! This activity will be sure to spark your curiosity while it also teaches children about the ocean and the amazing creatures that live under the water.

This is a great place to escape the unforgiving Florida weather. Whether its scorching hot outside or downpouring rain, you wont have to worry about being uncomfortable because Boca aquarium in completely inside. Be sure to check out their seasonal events listed on their Facebook.

Address: 2801 N Federal Hwy, Boca Raton, FL 33431 (Located inside Diamonds By Raymond Lee)

2. Create a Backyard Adventure

Don’t feel liked you need to travel far to make an activity a memorable one. You can keep your kids busy and entertained right at home! Make your own summer camp in your backyard (if weather permits). You can make a camp day schedule filled will games and crafts, set up a tent for backyard camping, and even have them invite friends over. This activity will get your kids excited because they be able to us their creativity, do some physical activity, and problem solve in a fun atmosphere. This is a great option for you as a parent because you don’t need to leave home at all. This eliminates a lot of planning and preparation with still making it feel like an intentional activity.

If the unpredictable Florida weather makes this outdoor activity not possible, don’t worry! You can bring your camp inside. Make a pillow and blanket fort get some snacks and indoor games to play. The bad weather doesn’t have to ruin your at home summer camp.

3. Sign Up for Camps and Local Classes

Let’s be real, you probably don’t want to or can’t lead every single activity your child does this summer. Kids also often miss being around their peers over summer break, they get to see them every day during the school year so this change is hard sometimes. Well, why not sign them up for a camp or class! It will be a fun getaway for them and they’ll definitely thank you for letting them branch out and be able to be around peers for a bit. From art and dance to coding and science, many local community centers and museums offer affordable summer programs. Activities such as these will help kids develop new skills and interests all while meeting new friends and staying mentally engaged. From sleep away camps to taking an art class once a week there are endless options for every type of child. 

4. Visit Local Libraries for Free Events

Libraries are a great resource for not only literature, but also free summer fun. Many libraries offer free programs and activities for children such as story times, craft making, or puppet shows. Check your local libraries event calendar for a list of activities and let your child choose something that interests them. This is also a great way to encourage learning for your child over the summer. While at the library try to let your child pick out a book to bring home and read until the next activity you come back for.

5. Plan Weekly Field Trips

Bring the most fun part of the school year with you this summer break. Kids always love field trips to try to plan weekly or biweekly field trips. These outings will feel more special to them and keep their boredom at bay. You can rotate between parks, museums, nature reserves, aquariums. Having something to look forward to each week helps kids stay motivated and gives us as parents more of a predictable routine. You can also ask your kids for their input and if they have any suggestions on places they’d like to visit. If they get some say in the activity they are more likely to enjoy it which takes stress off of you.

Final Thoughts

Summer break might sounds stressful to you at parents and maybe even boring to your kids. It really doesn’t have to be. With a mix of at home fun, and exciting local adventures like a trip to the Boca Aquarium, your family can make the most of every summer day. Summer doesn’t have to be stressful for parents or boring for kids. So use this list to find something fun for your family this summer and get outside! Start planning a summer full of memories!