10 Ways To Enjoy Summer The Way Your Dog Would
One of the great things about dogs is that they sure know how to have fun! Whether it’s lazing under the sun or chasing a tennis ball in the park, these guys embrace what it means to be happy. That’s why we’ve put together 10 ways you can enjoy your summer the way your dog would…and we hope you do!
1. Spend the Night in a Tent
If you can’t get away to a campground then make good use of that backyard! Take your kids outside for a night under the stars. Pitch a tent and light a bonfire for some late-night s’mores. Don’t forget the empty jars for catching fireflies!
2. Catch Up On Summer Reading
Bring the kids to your neighborhood library or bookstore and pick out some summer-friendly reads! We suggest catching up on the epically awesome Hunger Games Trilogy if you haven’t already; it’s a great choice to read aloud to the whole family. Lie out on the patio furniture and get whisked away to another world.
3. Have Fun Getting Fit
Summer is the perfect time for a little outdoor yoga! Lots of studios offer early morning or evening yogis the chance to breathe some fresh air while in tree pose. If yoga’s not your thing, we love playing tennis or going on long runs, but make sure you don’t set out midday in the peak heat and keep a bottle of water nearby.
4. Get Dirty in the Dough
Teach the kids a little about small business by setting them up with a summer bake sale! Get the troupe together for a little home-baked fun in the kitchen, then get that ever-useful foldable table from out of the basement and pitch your stand on the sidewalk. People passing by will thank you for the impromptu treat!
5. Become a Beach Bum
The best thing about summertime is hitting the sand for a little beach time! Gather the kids together and build sandcastles, or just let them bury you! There are so many fun activities to do at the beach like collecting seashells to make necklaces, flying a kite, and playing Tic-Tac-Toe in the sand. And don’t forget those underwater cameras to capture those hilarious eyes-squeezed-shut faces. Don’t worry if you don’t have easy access to a beach…go to your local pool or simply set up the sprinkler in the backyard and let the kids loose!
6. Host a Backyard Picnic
Whether it’s potluck style or speed dialing Dominos, it’s always more fun to eat outside! Get the neighborhood together for a friendly afternoon of food and games. We know that kids have a lot of creative energy so set up paper-mâché and t-shirt tie-dye stations for a little yard-friendly fun! Don’t worry about cleanup—just bust out the hose and let the kids play fireman.
7. Play in the Park
Enjoy the sunshine with a trip to the playground! We know everyone loves the swings, so have a contest to see who can swing the highest! Bring along a kickball or Frisbee and organize the other park-goers in a little outdoor activity. Plus it’s a great way to make new friends!
8. Take A Road Trip
Bringing your kids to summer camp or simply taking everyone along for a family getaway? Keep long car trips entertaining with brain games! Count state license plates and look for the furthest one from where you are. Play punch buggy when you see a Volkswagen beetle (but don’t hit too hard!), count red cars or wiper lights, or just play good old-fashioned 20 questions. The car ride will be over before you know it!
10. Be A Kid Again
Summer is about being easygoing and carefree…so take a trip down childhood lane! Bring the kids to the nearest amusement park for an afternoon of stomach-dropping rides and cotton candy, play putt-putt at your local mini-golf, walk around a neighboring town and pretend your tourists, visit the Big Cats at the zoo, or just check out what free events are happening in your town. No matter what you choose, let yourself loose a little and soak up that summer sun!
