Aaahh, the days of summer.  Just the word “summer” brings back so many memories.  Those were the days when a girl from small-town Kansas could ride her bike around town all summer long.  I had lots of family in town so we gathered together in the hot summer evenings for homemade banana nut ice cream (Aunt Vicki made the best).

Even though times have changed somewhat, just think of the possibilities for your children during the summertime!   Here is a list of things to keep in mind during these long days.

• Bike Rides – Ride as a family or take your child to a place where they can just ride without fear of cars.  There is nothing to a kid like the freedom that bike riding provides.
• Swimming – What else says summer like the contrast of a cool pool, lake, or ocean?  Swimming provides endless activity (I’ve never seen a kid get bored while swimming with friends) and is terrific exercise as well.
• Reading – Summer is all about balancing activity with leisure time.  Get the family together and everyone bring their favorite book.  Find a quiet, shady spot to sit and read a good book.  When you get tired, lay back in the grass and look at the sky.
• Day Trips – Spend a summer Saturday on the road traveling to some regional wonder.  Visit a theme park or a state park.  Summer should be full of adventure.
• Friends – Whether it be a next door neighbor or a summer camp experience, summer memories are full of new and old friendships.  If you live in an isolated spot (like we do), make sure your children get plenty of time to interact with friends.
• Baseball – Alright, baseball may not be for everyone, but I have very fond memories of spending summer evenings out at the ball field watching little league games, eating at the concession stand, and playing with friends.  Give it a try!

What are your summer memories made of?  When you think of summer, what comes to mind?