Summer Fun for the Whole Family
By Jamie Lerner
Keeping kids entertained during the long, hot summer can be tough on parents, so here are some fun tips and advice to keep you and your kids having fun and learning all summer long!
Looking for a great camp?
Choosing summer camps can be tough. There are sleep-away camps, sports camps, nature-themed camps, science camps, arts camps, acting camps and so much more! Visit the comprehensive FAMILY Magazine Camp Guide and FAMILY’s online Virtual Camp Fair for camps to fit all ages and interests. Also, check out your county recreation department for information!
Looking for educational activities for the whole family?
The libraries all have great summer reading programs, complete with contests, shows, and more. The local museums and aquariums are always fun, and many parks have botanical gardens and educational classes. County fairs are becoming more educational, and Celebrate Fairfax has a tons of great activities for kids, and a Sci-Tech tent full of fun. Looking for fun at night? Check out Screen on the Green for movie night on the National mall!
Want to go outdoors?
You can choose from day trips to our local zoos from the National Zoo, the Reston Zoo, and the Catoctin Wildlife Preserve. Tubing is a great low-cost way to spend a cool day floating down the creek. For more fun, don’t forget the water guns! If you’re up for more adventure, you can try canoeing or even rafting. Luray caverns and Chincoteague make great short trips away from the city – spend a long day or even stay for the night. Do you like hiking? Try parts of the Appalachian trail – Cunningham Falls is a great starting point, with a lake and waterfall. If you’re looking for something to thrill your older, adventure-seekers, try Terrapin Adventures for their ziplines, rope course, and climbing walls!
Want to keep the fun at home?
Of course, there are tons of great activities for you to try at home. Plant your own vegetable or herb garden. Play in the water! Go for a nature walk, or camp in your backyard! Why not have a campfire and grill hot dogs and S’mores for a fun summer treat? Do you have a space nut? Buy a rocket kit and launch rockets outside!
Whatever you choose, you can create summer fun for the entire family all summer long.
Jamie Lerner has spent over 12 years educating and entertaining kids, teachers, and families for Mad Science
For more information:
Camp Guide
http://www.washingtonfamily.com/page/Camps
Virtual Camp Fair
http://www.washingtonfamily.com/page/Virtual-Camp-Fair
Water Fun
http://www.rivertrail.com/index.php
Backyard Camping
http://www.homemadesimple.com/en-us/garden/pages/creative-backyard-camping.aspx
Fun Home Science
