Fresh air, sunshine, and fewer extracurricular activities make summer the perfect time for you to spend more time with your grandkids. The following list includes activities you can do with all ages of grandkids. So roll up your sleeves, kick off your shoes, and get ready to enjoy these simple, carefree activities with your grandchildren.
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Summer brings an abundance of fresh produce. Go out for a morning of picking whatever is in season. Do a quick search of some local farms that allow u-pick near you, and don't be afraid to let the grandkids sample the bounty as you pick. You can even take it a step further and take your pickings home and bake up a fruit pie that you can all enjoy together.
Take the grandkids to a movie like they've never experienced before. Summer nights are perfect for movies under the stars. Don't forget to pack some snacks to enjoy during the show.
A classic and fun activity for all ages. Grab a cheap kite, and pick a wide open field. If the kids are little, help them get it started. If they're older, you can each fly your own kites and chat it up while doing so.
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Gardening is fun for the grandkids, and there's something everyone at every age can do. Have the younger grandkids help water and weed while you put the older grandkids to work doing the heavy digging and planting. Enjoy their company as you tend the garden together all summer long.
Grab a pole and some bait, and you're all set to take the grandkids fishing. This activity is probably better for those grandkids above toddler age as it takes some concentration and the ability to be quiet. If you don't have access to a creek or pond, consider taking them to a highly rated fishing destination or do a quick online search to find some good local fishing spots and to see if a fishing license is required.
Get ready for a day of adventure. Give each grandkid a handful of change in a plastic baggie. Have them count it out so they know how much they have, then spend the day hitting up local garage sales. The sky's the limit on what kind of treasures you'll find. And don't forget to teach them to always negotiate a bargain price.
Farmers markets pop up everywhere in the summer, and they are so fun to visit. Take the grandkids and enjoy samples of the seasonal foods, smell the fresh-picked flowers, and pick out a few treats to enjoy together later.
Most local firehouses allow you to take a tour that includes checking out the trucks, meeting the firefighters, and more. Depending on your local firehouse, you may need to schedule a tour, or some may have specific hours when you can drop in. It's best to look up your local firehouse online to see what they offer.
Letterboxing is a fun way to get outside and check out some local parks and maybe even places you've never thought to visit before. Adults and kids of all ages can really get into this activity. To get started, go to letterboxing.org and put in your location. A list of letterboxes for you to find in your area will pop up. Make sure to pick up a logbook from your local library to stamp it with each letterbox you find.
If you have an American Girl store near you, then you must take your granddaughter to their afternoon tea. It's a dream come true for many little girls. If you don't have an American Girl store with a cafe near you, then set up your own high tea for you and your granddaughter. All you need is a fancy tea set, tasty tea (or juice), and some sweet treats.
If you have a grandson (or granddaughter) who is obsessed with airplanes, then an air show is a must-do for the summer bucket list. Check out the International Council of Air Shows website to find one happening near you.
Badminton can be as laid back or as competitive as you want it to be. Teach your grandkids to play, and it can be a great afternoon yard game to enjoy together.
Most cities have museums, but how often have you actually visited your local museum, or, better yet, taken the grandkids? Bonus if the museum has a kids area for your younger grandkids. Check out this list of kids museums to see if there is one near you.
Summer is a time to get messy and laugh about it. Set up a blanket (one you don't care about getting dirty) and put out some paints and canvas. Then sit with your grandchild and paint each other's portrait. Have fun with this and make them goofy.
Croquet is a perfect summer leisure game, so grab a croquet set and teach the grandkids to play. Kiddos as young as 4 can learn to play while younger ones can still have fun with a mallet and a ball. For the older grandkids, a competitive game is a fun way to spend a summer evening.