10 fun projects to do with your kids this summer

To be perfectly honest, I feel as though I’ve been through a whirlwind of emotions these past few weeks. Now that our oldest has graduated and we’re headed into our summer era, see: now that my mom card is being revoked on this 18th summer ::also see: sarcasm:: I’ve had a little reflecting to do. We spent another much-needed week in the ramshackle glam beach area that we love so much. It included sunburned shoulders, shell collecting, putt-putt golf, and movie nights on a crowded sofa with homemade popcorn. And I came to this conclusion: We’ve always been big believers in simple summers. We don’t need extravagant, endless vacations. And the oversharing on social media can make us all feel like we’re not enough in the parenting category. But summers are different for everyone. Some days, when they were younger, I was just surviving alone with three, and we kept the Disney Channel on a shameless loop. On other days, it was bringing them home straight to bed after the pool {because that totally counted for bathing, and they’d already passed out}. And some days, it meant fun, hands-on projects because that brought us joy. But I do know this: the time I’ve spent with them is never enough. I only want more. So, no matter what your summer looks like this year, and no matter how old your kids are, here are 10 fun projects to do with your kids this summer. Because the rainy days happen, too. These are some of my all-time faves I just thought I’d share. 

1. 10 Fun Projects to do With Your Kids This Summer: An Ice Cream Party

This one has fun toppings and free printables to boot. But nothing fancy, because sometimes all you need is ice cream + chocolate syrup. 

2. 10 Fun Projects to do With Your Kids This Summer: A DIY Dollhouse 

AKA the dollhouse diaries because I had a little too much fun? No, it doesn’t have to be as over-the-top as this one… or it can be more. It can also be made of cardboard and be just as fabulous. We’re here to serve up some realistic inspiration, so no matter what your skill level, we say it’s all about the memories. 

3. 10 Fun Projects to do With Your Kids This Summer: Abstract Canvases 

Whether the big version or small… these are definitely a tried and true fave. 

Just a little paint + some canvases + your kiddos for lots of fun. 

4. 10 Fun Projects to do With Your Kids This Summer: Heart Trays + Pinch Pots + Jewelry… Oh my. 

Once upon a time, we had a blast making this jewelry. 

And we also had a blast with these pinch pots…

And then we took on a little heart version this winter, which was equally fun. 

5. 10 Fun Projects to do With Your Kids This Summer: Vintage Brooch Collection

Which reminds me of this project. Because it’s the perfect time of year to start collecting with your kiddo with all things thrifting and flea markets.

6. 10 Fun Projects to do With Your Kids This Summer: Greenhouse for Kids + Indoor Water Garden

This little project was so much fun + so easy, we’ve repeated it over the years. 

And this one, too. I call them gardening for beginners + kiddos, which I’m still totally fine with, as a perpetual label. 

7. 10 Fun Projects to do With Your Kids This Summer: Alphabet Projects

We actually have a lot of them here, so be sure to check them out. I say they’re for all the age ranges. 

8. 10 Fun Projects to do With Your Kids This Summer: Homemade Play-Doh + Color Wheel Art 

Because they’re never too young to learn about color theory! Trust.

9. 10 Fun Projects to do With Your Kids This Summer: Handmade Connect 4 Game

This easy Connect 4 will be fun on a different level. They still play!

10. 10 Fun Projects to do With Your Kids This Summer: Handmade Connect 4 Game

These easy dinosaur keychains!

Bonus: 10 Fun Projects to do With Your Kids This Summer: DIY Treehouse!

This complete series to build your own this summer!

We’d love to hear if you make something this summer with your kids. Even if they’re mudpies. Because those make memories, too. Have an inspired day!