5 fun summer ideas for kids and parents

(NC) The warmer weather means it’s time for exploring and adventures, especially after spending so much time cooped up indoors. Here are a few creative ways to do family favourites this summer:

1. Take a neighbourhood tour
Try rediscovering an area in your city or town and experiencing it with new eyes. Look for self-guided walking tours online where you can learn about its history and neat facts. Or make a scavenger hunt game out of it, getting everyone to try to be the first to spot some graffiti art, a purple car or a special landmark. Whoever wins can get an extra scoop of ice cream when you visit the local parlour at the end of the day.

2. Check out a drive-in attraction
Who says drive-ins are old school? They’re making a comeback as a safer way to enjoy activities that typically involve crowds in closed spaces. Look for a theatre near you screening the latest Hollywood release or an old classic. Other drive-in options now available include comedy shows and concerts. Pack some cozy blankets and your favourite snacks for a budget-friendly family evening.

3. Camp under the stars near or far
Camping is super popular this summer, but there should still be a few openings left at a national or provincial park that’s a bit further afield or less in demand. Or save yourself the trip and camp out in your own backyard — the kids will have just as much fun and it’ll be less work for parents. Plan fun activities, like camping charades, crafts with nature and glow-in-the-dark bowling.

4. Enjoy the journey on a road trip
See new places in a safer way with an in-province day trip that’s all about the journey. Schedule stops at outdoor landmarks or attractions and plan to stop at fun local takeout spots that you pick together as a family. Save money by getting more out of your gas with a high-efficiency fuel like Synergy Supreme. Available at Esso stations, the premium fuel helps keep your engine three times cleaner for more kilometres per tank compared to gasoline meeting minimum Canadian government standards in port-fuel injected engines. Actual benefits are based on continuous use and may vary depending on vehicle type, driving style and gasoline previously used.

5. Visit a new community park
Spend an afternoon at a park you don’t normally go to, pointing out any new trees, plants and birds to your kids. You’ll be surprised how exciting a different playground or sport facility can feel. You can even bring activities for the kids and your laptop to get some work done on a weekday afternoon for a break in your usual routine.