Post written by Lilly

Summer is always connected to being in the great outdoors, which we love to enjoy, but it’s always a process to remember in late July and August how nearly impossible that is in Texas!

Just because we’re not outdoors, doesn’t mean we can’t move, connect, create and explore. It definitely takes having a mental list I can draw on during these long, hot days for ideas in the moment. Here’s my inner list of responses to boredom when my go-to can’t always be, “Go outside!”

Crafts

I know I can push the envelope a little with “messy” crafts like tie dye with kids, but there are so many great crafts that are much better suited for sprawling out on the sofa or kitchen table.

My mom always took us to the craft store towards the end of the summer and got us into a new-to-us craft concept. This summer our daughter and I are making loomed potholders (this seems to be the perfect balance of challenge and obtainable success for a five year old) and beaded bracelets for everyone we know.

Here’s a few more we got totally absorbed in growing up that I look forward to trying:

Which brings up a little trick I have with crafts that I think my Mom did growing up.

I find we’re way more engrossed in an activity when it has a greater purpose. So often with crafts or art, I ask for something specific for someone’s birthday, or we scheme up a plan on how to surprise gift our creations to people we love, or even brainstorm a concept for a little pretend store where we can sell our wares to “everyone we know” (aka, Markus and myself.)

This little dialogue has taken art time from minutes to days before. A little motivation seems to go a long way at our house. And thanks to this, I currently have pre-made custom birthday cards for everyone I know until November.

Games

Our favorite board game, Sloth in a Hurry, was given to us by my sister. It’s been a really easy, fun game to start even if we’re strapped on time since it’s very easy to set up where everyone has fun and everyone wins. We laugh sooo hard playing this! It really helps your kids see your childlike, silly side and connect with you in a different way.

We also love Mancala. I love any game that gets your attention but is easy to start and stop so we can do a round or two before dinner or bedtime.

The next game I want to get is Tenzi! Have you tried it?

Song & Dance

Nothing beats an impromptu jam session or talent show!

Our daughter had such an expansive experience attending theater camp for the first time this summer and is now planning performances in our home as often as possible – especially if we have company. (This is one I know I can’t bring up to my Mom. Payback city for making everyone watch my shows growing up!)

But our favorite thing is all dancing together freestyle in our kitchen and living room! Honestly, we have so much fun that it becomes a great way to get energy out during these hot days of summer.

If you plan to dance it out, check out our family Spotify playlists with our Living Room Dance Party!

What are your favorite ways to have fun beating the heat?!