Summer’s here. School’s out, the sun’s up, and if you’re like me, you’re looking at three months of "What are we doing today, Dad?" with equal parts excitement and panic. But hey—this is our time to shine. Whether you’re into backyard shenanigans, beach runs, or just looking to get your kids off screens for more than seven minutes, I’ve got you covered.
Here’s a grab bag of dad-approved summer ideas to keep everyone happy, tired, and slightly sunburned (but in a responsible SPF 50 kind of way).
1. Backyard Camping (AKA: Camping Without the Car Ride)
Set up a tent. Roast marshmallows over the grill. Tell spooky stories that are just the right amount of spooky (no therapy bills, please). You’re technically “outside,” but the bathroom is still just a short sprint away. That’s a win.
2. Beach Day, Baby
Load up the car with all the things you’ll forget you packed. Build lopsided sandcastles. Chase waves. Lose a flip-flop. Pack snacks like you’re feeding a small army and don’t forget the one toy they have to bring but won’t touch once. You’ll be exhausted and sandy—but they’ll talk about it for weeks.
3. DIY Ice Cream Party (Yes, It’s Just as Awesome as It Sounds)
Bust out the bowls, scoop up some ice cream, and let the kids go full sprinkle scientist. Bonus: no line, no weird looks when someone demands six gummy worms and pretzels on their chocolate chip scoop. It’s summer. Weird is welcome.
4. The Great Outdoors-ish: Nature Scavenger Hunt
Print a list or just wing it—go find leaves shaped like hearts, rocks shaped like potatoes, or bugs that don’t make anyone scream. Local trails and parks are gold mines for tiny discoveries. You’ll get fresh air, and they’ll think they’re on an expedition. Win-win.
5. Bikes + Kids = Summer Gold
Nothing beats the wind-in-your-hair (or helmet) joy of a family bike ride. Explore a new trail. Hit the park. Get a little lost and call it “adventuring.” Throw a granola bar at everyone mid-ride and they’ll think it’s a feast.
6. Backyard Movie Night
Hang a sheet, plug in the projector, and boom—instant magic. Pop popcorn, drag out some blankets, and let them stay up a little too late. Bonus points for watching The Sandlot, because summer isn’t complete without it.
7. Water Balloon Mayhem
Fill a cooler with water balloons. Release the kids. Prepare to be drenched. This is chaos in its purest form—and they’ll be grinning like maniacs the whole time. Warning: they will gang up on you. Just accept it.
8. Classic Picnic in the Park
Sandwiches, juice boxes, a tattered blanket, and a frisbee. That’s all it takes. Keep it low-key. Let them run wild. Lie back and watch clouds for a bit. It’s simple, it’s quiet, and it’s probably the most peaceful 45 minutes you’ll get all week.
Final Thoughts:
Summer doesn’t have to be some Pinterest-perfect highlight reel. It’s about showing up. Being present. Saying “yes” more than “maybe later.” These don’t have to be elaborate or expensive—your kids will remember the time with you, not the destination. So slap on that dad hat, load up on snacks, and let the chaos begin.
You’ve got this, summer dad.
