As the school year winds down across the country, kids are counting the days until summer break. But the way they spend their summers today looks very different from the barefoot, sun-soaked, screen-free days many of us remember. Gone are the hours spent chasing the ice cream truck or running through sprinklers—replaced instead by tablets, video games, and social media.
But it doesn’t have to be that way.
With a little creativity and a lot of heart, you can give your kids a summer that feels like it came straight out of a nostalgic memory. Editors and fans of Southern Living have shared their favorite ways to bring back the magic of a free-range, old-school summer—and the best part? No screens required.
- Chase Down the Ice Cream Truck - That familiar jingle still brings joy. When you hear it, grab your wallet and run. It’s a simple thrill that never gets old and teaches kids the joy of spontaneity.
- Make Homemade Treats - Pull out the ice cream maker or those popsicle trays hiding in the back of the cabinet. Making frozen treats together is not only fun, but it also gives kids a sense of accomplishment—and a delicious reward.
- Run Through the Sprinkler - Forget the fancy inflatable water parks. A simple sprinkler in the yard can provide hours of laughter and cooling relief. It’s low-cost, low-maintenance, and high on fun.
- Wash the Car in the Driveway - It might start as a chore, but it usually ends in a water fight. Kids get to help out and cool off at the same time—plus, your car ends up clean.
- Throw Water Balloons - A classic summer activity that never goes out of style. Whether it’s a full-on battle or a casual toss, water balloons are a great way to beat the heat.
- Catch Bugs at Dusk - All you need is a jar and a sense of wonder. Whether you call them lightning bugs or fireflies, catching them is a magical experience that connects kids to nature.
- Set Up a Lemonade Stand - It’s a rite of passage. Let your kids run the show—design the sign, mix the lemonade, and handle the money. It’s a fun way to learn about entrepreneurship and responsibility.
- Camp in the Backyard - Pitch a tent, roast marshmallows, and tell ghost stories under the stars. Even if they sneak back inside before midnight, the experience is what counts.
- Build a Fort - Indoors or out, forts are the ultimate kid hideaway. Use pillows, blankets, sticks, or whatever’s on hand. It’s a space for imagination to run wild.
In a world where digital distractions are everywhere, giving your kids a summer filled with simple joys and outdoor adventures is a gift they’ll remember forever. So unplug, step outside, and let the summer magic begin.
SOURCE: Southern Living