Old-Fashioned Summer Fun

Move over video games, see you later Spongebob, and adios Dora; it’s time to get the kids off the couch; old-fashioned fun is making a comeback. As modern parents, let’s all make a summer vow to turn back the clock and enjoy some hearty playtime with our families.
 
We understand how hectic life can get. That’s why we want to take this opportunity to remind you to slow down and enjoy the moments. There’s no better way to enjoy your children and family than with some old-fashioned fun.
 
The words “old-fashioned” might conjure up visions of your grandmothers wedding dress, doilies on the coffee table, and kicking tin cans in the alley. That’s exactly what we want to happen. We want you to remember the old-fashioned family values of a slower time; a time when Grandma baked cookies from scratch and when kids knew how to entertain themselves with a simple can.
 
Now that summer is upon us, kids are out of school, and the sun is high in the sky here are some great ideas for getting the family together. When you’re heading to an old-fashioned outing you might also want to consider inviting the neighbors, grandparents, cousins, and friends. One thing about old-fashioned fun is that it’s about enjoying time with others.
 
Here’s a quick list of great ways to enjoy the summer days.
 

• If someone tells you to, “Go fly a kite!” say “That’s a great idea!” Nothing rekindles a youthful spirit than flying a kite in the wind.
• Your kids will bubble over with joy when you go wild with bubbles. Gather as many different kinds of blowing sticks as you can find. Get a big bottle of bubbles and everyone get in on the fun.
• Make your own play-dough. Preschool and elementary teachers have been doing it for decades and you can too. To make your own play-dough you will need (1 cup of flour, 1 cup of warm water, 2 teaspoons cream of tartar, 1 teaspoon oil, 1/4 cup salt, and food coloring. Mix all ingredients, adding food coloring last. Stir over medium heat until smooth. Remove from pan and knead until blended smooth. Place in plastic bag or airtight container when cooled. Will last for a long time.)
• Scream for ice cream then go get some.
• If your lawn is on an irrigation system, then it’s time to run to the store and get an old-fashioned sprinkler. Be sure to put on your suit (shorts and a tee-shirt will also do) and have fun.
• Teach kids about business. Open a lemonade stand. Make sure to tell everyone you know about your child’s entrepreneurial efforts and ask them to show their support by coming by for a cup of cool lemonade.
• Plan to spend an evening by the campfire. Roast hot dogs, marshmallows, and don’t forget the graham crackers and chocolate bars.
• Remember cook-outs aren’t just for dinner. Plan a morning cook-out with scrambled eggs, muffins, and anything else you can think of.
• Have your favorite pizza parlor deliver to the park or the lake.
• Kids of all ages enjoy bike riding whether it’s around the neighborhood, at the park or on a nature trail, the family that bikes together has fun together.
• Go camping even if it’s just one night.
• Head over to Lake Hefner and rent a sailboat or consider taking lessons together.
• Take a hike at the Martin Park Nature Center.
• Take in an outdoor concert. Pack a picnic and let the music play.
• Plan a day at the Jasmine Moran Children’s Museum.
• Check out the train schedules and plan a day trip on the train.
• Go monkey around at the zoo.
• Last but not least, lie in the grass and watch the clouds go by.

The key to creating fantastic summer memories is to get into the old-fashioned spirit. You must be willing to be a kid again and get in on the fun. When you participate in games (even if it’s a quick game of hide-and-seek) everyone has more fun. So, get out in the fresh air, turn off your cell phone and enjoy. You’ll be glad you did and your kids will always remember their mom and dad knew how to have fun.

| top of page | back | home |