Summer Activities for Kids Archives - Affordable Homeschooling

Printable Summer Scavenger Hunt

Tara — Mon, 06 Mar 2023 10:00:00 +0000

Are your kids ready for a wild and fun summer? Give them an adventure this season with our printable summer scavenger hunt!

This scavenger hunt idea encourages kids to get creative and explore the outdoors. From A to Z, they will search for items that start with each letter of the alphabet.

Along the way, they’ll be able to make new discoveries, do some nifty detective work, and learn something new under the sun.

With this thrilling scavenger hunt in hand, there's nothing stopping your kids from having a great summer experience!

Summer Scavenger Hunt List

Summertime is a great time to get outdoors and have some fun with the family. Why not try our free summer scavenger hunt?

This is a great way to get everyone moving and having fun. Plus, you can use the list of items to create a custom scavenger hunt tailored just for your family.

Preparing for the Scavenger Hunt

If you're looking for a fun and challenging activity to do with your kids, a fun scavenger hunt is the perfect option. But before you start, there are a few things you'll need to do to get prepared.

First, print out a list of items that need to be found. Laminate the scavenger hunt or slip it in a page protector so you can use it over and over again during summer break.

Next, grab a clipboard and some dry-erase markers so you can keep track of what's been found. And finally, gather your family together to start the hunt!

With a little preparation, children of all ages are sure to have a fun and memorable time.

Completing the Activity

This printable scavenger hunt includes two versions. The first page of this free printable summer scavenger hunt shares a word for each letter of the alphabet. The second page of this alphabet scavenger hunt for summer shows all the letters of the alphabet but gives no suggestions for each one.

The items on this list can be found around the home or around town. After finding all the items you can around the home, put the clipboard and scavenger hunt list in the car. Have kids search for the remaining items as you run errands around town or on your next road trip.

Older kids can get creative as they search the home and the neighborhood for an item that begins with each letter of the alphabet.

Easy Scavenger Hunt Ideas

A summer scavenger hunt is a great way to get the whole family outside and enjoying the nice weather. Here are a few ideas to get you started.

Turn your scavenger hunt into a competition between siblings or teams. Whoever finds the most items in a certain amount of time wins a prize.

Finally, if your kids are old enough for cell phones, you can turn this into a photo scavenger hunt by having your kids take pictures of the things they find on the list.

Kids may even be inspired to create their own scavenger hunt after completing this one.

Whatever you do, make sure to have fun and enjoy the summer sun!

Summer Books for Kids

Homeschooled kids can benefit greatly from reading summer books. Not only is it a great way to pass their time, but it also helps them expand their knowledge and broaden their horizons.

With so many fun and exciting books out there, summer can be an ideal season to introduce some of these titles to your kids.

Whether they choose stories about mythical creatures or vivid accounts of historical events, they are sure to learn something new while being entertained at the same time.

Reading summer books with your children is an essential part of any homeschooling curriculum, so why not make the most out of this opportunity?

The Night Before Summer Vacation – A little girl and her family are getting ready to go on vacation . . . or at least they are trying to. In the effort to pack everything that will be needed, there's bound to be something overlooked, and what that is provides a funny ending to this meter-perfect “twist” on Clement Moore's classic.

And Then Comes Summer – When the days stretch out like a slow yawn, and the cheerful faces of Johnny-jump-ups jump up . . . then it’s time to get ready for summer! From flip-flops and hide-and-seek to fireworks and ice-cream trucks, from lemonade stands and late bedtimes to swimming in the lake and toasting marshmallows, there’s something for everyone in this bright and buoyant celebration of the sunny season.

Summer is Here! – Pick blueberries, see a caterpillar grow from an egg to a butterfly, or take a trip to the lake or beach with your family. Peek under rocks, look up in the trees, dive into the water–there is so much to learn and so much to discover together when you read Summer is Here!

Teaching Resources

If you love using peg dogs in your imaginative play area, you don’t want to miss these eco-friendly Summer Peg Dolls decorated with hand painted summery flowers!

Storytelling is part of the learning process. Add some summer story stones to your reading and literacy centers.

Summer Activities for Kids

If your kids have enjoyed this summer scavenger hunt, be sure to check out these fun summer activities for kids of all ages.

The post Printable Summer Scavenger Hunt appeared first on Affordable Homeschooling.

Kids Movies About Summer Camp

Tara — Sat, 24 Sep 2022 09:00:00 +0000

It's almost summer break, which means it's time to start planning those fun activities to keep the kids occupied.

If you're looking for some movie inspiration, look no further than this list of our favorite kids movies about summer camp. From classic coming-of-age tales to animated adventures, there's something for everyone on this list.

There's something special about spending the summer at camp. Whether it's making new friends, learning new skills or just spending time outdoors, summer camp is a cherished experience for many kids.

And what better way to get into the camping spirit than by watching a fun movie for kids about it?

When most kids hear the words “summer camp,” they get excited. They imagine spending time outdoors, swimming in a lake, roasting marshmallows over a campfire, and making new friends.

For many kids, summer camp is a rite of passage – a chance to explore the world beyond their neighborhood.

Today, we will take a look at some popular kids' movies that are set at summer camp. We will discuss why these movies are so popular, and how parents can prepare their children for an amazing summer camp experience!

Why are summer camp movies so popular?

Summer camp is a great opportunity for kids to try new things and explore their interests. There are so many different activities to choose from, and kids can make new friends while they're at it. It's no wonder that so many kids movies are about summer camp!

• The excitement of new experiences: One of the best things about summer camp is that it's a great opportunity for kids to try new things. Trying new things can be scary, but at summer camp there's always someone there to support you.

• The fun of being around friends: One of the best things about summer camp is getting to spend time with your friends in a fun and relaxed setting. There's no pressure to be perfect, and kids can just enjoy themselves without having to worry about school or homework.

How to Prepare Your Kids for Summer Camp

If you're thinking about sending your child to summer camp this year, there are a few things you can do to prepare them (and yourself!) for the experience.

Here are five tips for preparing your kids for summer camp:

Choose a summer camp that is the right fit for your child.

There are all sorts of different camps out there, so it's important to find one that will be a good fit for your child's personality and interests.

There are sports camps, academic camps, arts camps, and more. If your child is shy, look for a camp with smaller groups or buddy system. If they're outgoing, look for a camp with lots of activities and social events.

The most important thing is that your child feels comfortable at camp and has the opportunity to try new things and have fun!

Discuss the camp with your child and get their input on what they would like to do while there.
Once you've narrowed down your options for summer camp, sit down with your child and discuss what they would like to do while they're there.

Do they want to try horseback riding? Do they want to learn how to canoe? Do they want to spend time making arts and crafts? Getting their input will help make sure that they have a great time at camp!

Prepare them for what to expect when they go to summer camp.

You know what they say: knowledge is power! Before your child heads off to summer camp, give them a rundown of what they can expect while they're there.

Discuss things like homesickness (it's normal!), making friends (it might take some time but it'll happen!), missing you (of course!), and trying new things (even if they're scared!).

Helping them understand what their experience might be like will go a long way in helping them adjust to being away from home.

Kids Movies About Summer Camp

When most people think of summer camp, they imagine a fun and carefree environment where kids can enjoy themselves without having to worry about school or their day-to-day lives.

This is the exact type of atmosphere that is portrayed in many popular kids movies that take place at summer camp.

These movies offer a glimpse into a world where kids can let loose and enjoy themselves without having to worry about mundane things like school or chores.

They get to go on crazy adventures, make new friends, and participate in all sorts of fun activities.

For many kids, this is an idealized version of summer camp, but it's one that is sure to evoke fond memories for those who have attended a real-life summer camp.

For parents who are considering sending their children to summer camp, these movies can be a great way to get them excited about the experience.

They provide a sneak peak into all the fun that awaits their children, and they can serve as a reminder that spending time away from home can be a positive and rewarding experience.

An American Girl Story: Summer Camp, Friends For Life

Aspiring filmmaker, Z and Paz, a budding engineer, arrive at S.T.E.A.M. camp excited for tech heaven. When the administrator makes them explore nature and confiscates all tech, they think their summer’s doomed. Things take a mysterious turn when they meet Jordan, an enchanting “counselor” who sends them on an adventure, opening them up to a world of possibilities — like befriending Drew...

Camp Cool Kids

At their summer camp games, Spence and his big brother Zach find themselves on opposing teams: it's the dweebs against the bullies. Can Spence make new friends, overcome his fears, stand up to the bullies and win a trophy in the process?

Family Camp

Two polar-opposite families find themselves sharing a cabin for a week away at camp. With the highly coveted camp trophy at stake, dads Tommy and Eddie end up lost in the woods after a comedy of errors and mishaps.

Camp Rock

Camp Rock follows Mitchie as she discovers the competition at prestigious rock camp. With an amazing cast that includes Demi Lovato and The Jonas Brothers, you're sure to enjoy watching this film.

Camp Rock is also a great film for those who love music, as it features some great songs that will get your toes tapping.

So if you're looking for a fun film to watch that the whole family can enjoy, be sure to check out Camp Rock.

The Parent Trap (1998)

When identical twins Hallie Parker and Annie James meet at summer camp, they make a audacious plan to switch places so they can each go home with the parent they've never known.

But when their scheme succeeds, they discover that "divide and conquer" may not be the best strategy when it comes to parenting.

As the girls get to know their estranged parents and siblings, they start to realize that they might be better off as a family of four after all.

Scooby-Doo! Camp Scare

Scooby-Doo and the Mystery, Inc. gang are back in an all-new movie! This time, they're headed to Camp Scare - a summer camp for kids with a serious supernatural bend.

With ghosts, ghouls and monsters lurking around every corner, it's up to Scooby and the gang to solve the mysteries of The Woodsman, The Fishman and The Banshee of Black Canyon.

Camp

After a series of Broadway flops, songwriter Bert Hanley goes to work at Camp Ovation, a musical camp for young performers in upstate New York. Inspired by the kids, he finds an opportunity to regain success by staging an altogether new production.

Fred 3: Camp Fred

Schools out and Fred Figglehorn's dreams of waterslides, Clydesdales and waffle bars turn to nightmares of gruel, poisonous berries and Crocobearimoose when his mom signs him up to the wrong camp! Stuck at Camp Iwannapeepee, Fred is convinced his cabin mates are being poisoned and fed to camp director Floyd -- who's really a Rat Monster in disguise!

Race For Your Life, Charlie Brown

The Peanuts gang is back and this time they're headed to summer camp!

They'll be competing in a river-raft race against some bullying challengers, but with their characteristic determination and spunk, the gang is sure to come out on top.

Join Charlie Brown, Snoopy, Lucy, Linus, and the rest of the crew as they embark on this hilarious adventure. It's sure to be a wild ride!

Summer camp is a great opportunity for kids to try new things, make new friends, and just have a lot of fun.

These movies about summer camp showcase the best parts of this experience, and we think they're definitely worth watching with your kids.

The post Kids Movies About Summer Camp appeared first on Affordable Homeschooling.

Kids Summer Reading Challenge

Tara — Wed, 22 Jun 2022 09:00:00 +0000

Summer is a great time to relax and enjoy some downtime, but it can also be a productive season for kids. One way to keep them engaged in learning is to set up a kids summer reading challenge.

This is a fun way for kids to track their progress and see how much they've improved. Plus, it's a great way to keep them interested in reading during the summer break.

Keep reading for details on how to set up your own summer reading challenge. Then, add it to your kids activities for summer.

How do you make a summer reading challenge?

First, you'll need a free printable book log. This will help kids keep track of the books they read over the summer.

You can find our summer reading challenge printables at the very bottom of this post. Once you have a book log, it's time to set some goals.

Talk to your kids about how many books they want to read over the summer, and help them set a realistic goal.

Now that you've got your reading log, it's time to start reading! Encourage your kids to read a variety of books, and make sure they're keeping track of their progress on their book log.

As they read, they can check off each book they finish. At the end of the summer, celebrate your child's success by taking them to pick out a new book as a reward for all their hard work.

Creating a summer reading challenge is a great way to keep kids engaged in learning over the break. With a little planning and our free printables, you can set up your own challenge in no time.

Summer Reading Challenge Ideas

It's that time of year again! The kids are out of school and the days are long and lazy. But just because it's summer doesn't mean learning has to take a break.

Here are a few summer reading challenge ideas to get you started:

• Read one book from each continent. This is a great way to learn about different cultures and expand your child's horizons.

• Start at the beginning and work your way up. Challenge kids to read books with titles that start with each letter of the alphabet – A to Z.

• Challenge kids to read outside their comfort zone. Pick genres or topics they normally shy away.

• Go global. Choose books set in as many different countries as possible. This is a great way to armchair travel the world without even leaving your home.

No matter what type of challenge you choose, summer reading is a great way to keep your child's mind active and engaged over the long summer months.

Reading Challenges for Kids

If you're looking for more reading challenge ideas, check out the ideas I've shared below. I hope you're able to find a challenge to spark your child's interest.

So, if you're looking for ways to keep your kids' brains active and engaged over the summer break, consider setting up a reading challenge.

Not only will they enjoy it, but they'll also be learning while they're having fun.

Have you tried this with your kids? What tips do you have for making it a success? Let us know in the comments below!

The post Kids Summer Reading Challenge appeared first on Affordable Homeschooling.

Summer Read Alouds

Tara — Tue, 21 Jun 2022 09:00:00 +0000

There's nothing like a good chapter book to keep kids entertained during the summer. These are some of our favorite summer read alouds that are both challenging and lighthearted.

One great way to encourage your child's love for reading is by reading books together as a family. Not only is this a bonding experience, but it also allows you to model good reading habits for your child.

If you're looking for some great chapter books to read aloud with your kids this summer, check out our list below.

These books are perfect for kids who are starting to read on their own but still need some help. They're also great for building vocabulary and comprehension skills. Add one or more to your kids activities for summer.

Why is reading aloud important?

Reading aloud is important for a number of reasons. First of all, it helps to develop phonemic awareness, which is the ability to hear, identify, and manipulate the individual sounds in spoken language. This is a critical skill for learning to read and write.

Secondly, reading aloud gives children exposure to a wide variety of vocabulary words and sentence structures, which can help them develop their own oral language skills.

Finally, reading aloud is simply enjoyable! It can be a way for parents and children to bond, while also fostering a love of books and reading.

Next time you're looking for something to do with your kids, try reading aloud together. You may be surprised at how much fun you have – and how beneficial it can be!

Choosing a Book to Read Aloud

When choosing a book to read to your children, there are a few things you should keep in mind. First, consider the age of your child and choose a book that is developmentally appropriate.

Secondly, think about what type of book your child will enjoy. If they are a fan of animals, look for books with animal characters. If they like stories with a lot of action, look for books with fast-paced plots.

Lastly, consider your own interests and choose a book that you will enjoy reading aloud. Reading should be enjoyable for both you and your child, so pick a book that you can both get excited about.

With a little bit of thought, you can easily find the perfect book to read to your child.

More: Summer Reading Challenge

Summer Read Alouds

There's nothing like a good chapter book to keep kids entertained during the summer.

These are some of our favorites that are both challenging and lighthearted.

Happy reading!

Rosco the Rascal Goes to Camp

Ten-year-old James and his seven-year-old sister, Mandy, are off to camp with their loyal German shepherd, Rosco.

While Mandy struggles with homesickness, James’s week is threatened by a prank-playing bunk mate’s antics.

But during an unexpected thunderstorm in a game of capture-the-flag, the prankster finds himself lost and alone deep inside the forest.

Rosco must play the hero and save the boy but not before he and James teach him a hard-earned lesson about friendship.

Cam Jansen and the Summer Camp Mysteries

Mysteries follow super-sleuth Cam Jansen everywhere she goes...even to summer camp.

Cam and her best friend, Eric, are spending three weeds at Camp Eagle Lake.

It's a summer filled with swimming, sports, canoeing, making new friends, and...solving mysteries!

It's sure to be a fun--and challenging--summer for Cam Jansen!

Judy Moody and the NOT Bummer Summer

Just when it looks like her summer is going to be BOR-ing — eureka! — Judy comes up with the most thrill-a-delic plan ever.

Get ready for a race involving tightrope walking, Scream Monster riding, and way more!

Add in a treasure hunt for Judy’s teacher, a midnight stakeout, a runaway ice-cream truck, and a dash of Bigfoot, and what have you got?

The Judy Moodiest summer ever!

Summer According to Humphrey

When Humphrey hears that school is ending, he can't believe his ears. What's a classroom hamster to do if there's no more school?

It turns out that Mrs. Brisbane has planned something thrilling for Humphrey and Og the frog: they're going to Camp Happy Hollow with Ms. Mac and lots of the kids from Room 26!

Camp is full of FUN-FUN-FUN new experiences, but it's also a little scary. There are fur-raising wild sounds and smells, and there's something called the Howler to watch out for.

Humphrey is always curious about new adventures, but could camp be too wild even for him?

Ragweed

A mouse has to do what a mouse has to do. Ragweed is determined to see the world.

He leaves his family and cozy country home and sets off by train for the big city.

What wonders await him: music, excitement, new friends...and cunning, carnivorous cats!

The Penderwicks: A Summer Tale of Four Sisters, Two Rabbits, and a Very Interesting Boy

This summer the Penderwick sisters have a wonderful surprise: a holiday on the grounds of a beautiful estate called Arundel.

Soon they are busy discovering the summertime magic of Arundel's sprawling gardens, treasure-filled attic, tame rabbits, and the cook who makes the best gingerbread in Massachusetts.

But the best discovery of all is Jeffrey Tifton, son of Arundel's owner, who quickly proves to be the perfect companion for their adventures.

The Last Last-Day-Of-Summer

Otto and Sheed are the local sleuths in their zany Virginia town, masters of unraveling mischief using their unmatched powers of deduction.

And as the summer winds down and the first day of school looms, the boys are craving just a little bit more time for fun, even as they bicker over what kind of fun they want to have.

That is, until a mysterious man appears with a camera that literally freezes time. Now, with the help of some very strange people and even stranger creatures, Otto and Sheed will have to put aside their differences to save their town—and each other—before time stops for good.

The Family Fletcher Takes Rock Island

The Fletchers are back on Rock Island, home of all their best summer memories. But from the first day they arrive, it’s clear that this year, things have changed.

FIRST, a giant fence is blocking their beloved lighthouse. SECOND, they have new neighbors. THIRD, who the heck is the weird artist guy who's never actually painting? And FOURTH, there's now an ice cream truck!

Can the island stay the same even with these crazy transformations?

Midsummer's Mayhem

Eleven-year-old Mimi Mackson comes from a big Indian American family: Dad's a renowned food writer, Mom's a successful businesswoman, and her three older siblings all have their own respective accomplishments.

It's easy to feel invisible in such an impressive family, but Mimi's dream of proving she's not the least-talented member of her family seems possible when she discovers a contest at the new bakery in town.

Plus, it'll start her on the path to becoming a celebrity chef like her culinary idol, Puffy Fay.

One Crazy Summer

Eleven-year-old Delphine is like a mother to her two younger sisters, Vonetta and Fern.

She's had to be, ever since their mother, Cecile, left them seven years ago for a radical new life in California.

But when the sisters arrive from Brooklyn to spend the summer with their mother, Cecile is nothing like they imagined...

Summer Fun for Kids

If you're looking for more summer ideas for your kids, be sure to check out the ideas below:

So, if you're looking for a good read that will keep your kids entertained all summer long, look no further than these chapter books.

They are sure to provide hours of entertainment – and maybe even a few laughs – for readers of all ages.

What are your favorite chapter books? Let us know in the comments!

The post Summer Read Alouds appeared first on Affordable Homeschooling.

Summer Scavenger Hunt for Kids

Tara — Mon, 20 Jun 2022 11:00:00 +0000

Looking for a way to keep the kids entertained this summer? Check out our free printable summer scavenger hunt for kids that will take them outdoors and keep them busy all day long. From finding objects in nature to completing tasks, this is one activity they're sure to love.

The best part about this scavenger hunt idea is that it can be enjoyed by the whole family. Grab the kids and head outdoors for a day of fun in the sun. With this printable list, you'll have everything you need to make it a success.

So what are you waiting for? Download our free printable and get started on your summer scavenger hunt today!

If you're looking for a fun activity the whole family can enjoy, a scavenger hunt is the perfect option. Scavenger hunts can be tailored to any age group and can be as simple or complex as you like.

Whether you're hiding objects around the house or creating a series of clues to lead your scavengers to their prize, there's no wrong way to play. And the best part is, everyone gets to join in on the fun.

So next time you're looking for a way to entertaining the kids (and yourself), grab a few household items and get hunting.

Summer Break Scavenger Hunt

Scavenger hunts are a great way to get kids off screens and exploring their homes – and they might even learn something new in the process!

Preparing the Scavenger Hunt

To prepare the scavenger hunt for your kids, print a copy for each child or each team. You can laminate them if you'd like to use them again and again throughout the summer.

Provide your children with a clipboard and a marker, and you're all set for some summer fun!

Completing the Scavenger Hunt

Choose a location for your scavenger hunt. This particular scavenger hunt can be completed at the beach, a public pool, or at a water park. It can even be completed at your local department store if it sells summer supplies.

There are two pages – one contains word clues for kids who can read, the other has picture clues for pre-readers.

You can pair a younger child with an older one for even more fun! The first to find all of the items on their page is the winner.

How to Make a Scavenger Hunt More Challenging

If you're looking to make your next scavenger hunt more challenging, there are a few things you can do. For older kids, try making the items on the list harder to find.

If you really want to give them a challenge, try adding timed elements, so they need to complete the hunt within a certain time limit.

Whichever route you choose, making your scavenger hunt more difficult is sure to provide an extra dose of fun.

Whatever you do, just make sure you don't make it too difficult – after all, the point is still to have fun!

Summer Scavenger Hunt Ideas

Need more summer scavenger hunt ideas? Check these out:

Summer Books for Kids

Fill your book basket with a great collection of books about summer. Most of these books can be found at your local library or used bookstore.

If you have a hard time finding them, you can order them through my Amazon affiliate links by clicking the images below.

Teaching Resources

If you love using peg dogs in your imaginative play area, you don’t want to miss these eco-friendly Summer Peg Dolls decorated with hand painted summery flowers!

Storytelling is part of the learning process. Add some summer story stones to your reading and literacy centers.

With this printable scavenger hunt list, you can keep the kids entertained all day long. They'll have a blast exploring their surroundings and completing tasks.

Be sure to take plenty of pictures to commemorate their fun-filled day!

The post Summer Scavenger Hunt for Kids appeared first on Affordable Homeschooling.

Summer Animated Movies

Tara — Sat, 18 Jun 2022 14:00:00 +0000

What better way to escape the heat than by snuggling up in front of the TV with some cartoons and summer animated movies?

From light-hearted cartoons to heartwarming family films, there's something for everyone in this list. Don't miss out on all the laughter and entertainment these movies have to offer!

Watching these movies for kids is a great way to beat the summer heat, spend a rainy summer afternoon, or enjoy a family movie night.

There's something about summer that just makes us want to kick back and relax with a good movie. Maybe it's the warm weather or the long days, but there's nothing quite like settling in with a cool drink and a big bowl of popcorn to enjoy a summer blockbuster.

Of course, not all movies are created equal, and there are definitely some that are better suited for summer viewing than others. For example, any movie that features a beach is automatically summer-approved in our book.

While we love a good winter movie, there's just something about watching people frolicking in the sun that makes us feel all warm and fuzzy inside.

So if you're looking for the perfect animated movie to watch on a hot summer day, be sure to check out our list of recommendations.

Summer Movies

If you're looking for a fun activity to beat the summer heat, grab some popcorn and settle in for a family movie with one or more of these fun options.

The Cat in the Hat Knows a Lot About Camping!

It's the first day of Summer Vacation and The Cat in the Hat whisks Nick, Sally and Fish off on the greatest great outdoor camping adventure ever!

Our gang gets back to nature as they hike through the Fickle Fern Forest, camp out overnight, trek over Mt. Weewobble and canoe down the Tickle Drop River.

Campfire Stories For Kids

Do you have fond memories of being told stories around the campfire? Everyone loves ghost stories but these ghost stories are for kids! Whether you're huddled under the covers with a flashlight, camping out with your family or having a sleepover with your friends, you'll get a shiver out of these spooky stories. These creepy tales is sure to give you goosebumps.

Finding Nemo

Nemo, a young clownfish is captured and taken to a dentist's office aquarium.

It's up to Marlin, his father, and Dory, a friendly but forgetful regal blue tang fish, to make the epic journey to bring Nemo home from Australia's Great Barrier Reef.

Toy Story 4

When Woody, Buzz and the gang join Bonnie on a road trip with her new craft-project-turned-toy, Forky, the innocent little spork's hilarious antics launch Woody on a wild quest filled with unexpected new characters--and one long-lost friend!

Surf's Up

Come join Cody, a Rockhopper penguin, as he journeys from his home in Shiverpool, Antarctica, to take part in the Big Z Memorial Surf-Off on the beach of Pen Gu Island.

During his adventure he meets some new friends, including surf nut Chicken Joe and the spirited lifeguard Lani.

Cody believes that winning is everything until he meets The Geek...

The Little Mermaid

Ariel, the fun-loving and mischievous mermaid, is enchanted with all things human.

Disregarding her father's order to stay away from the world above the sea, she strikes a bargain with a devious sea witch to trade her beautiful voice for legs.

But can she also win a prince's heart?

Rio

A classic tale of self-discovery, romance, and adventure, Rio is the story of Blu, a flightless macaw who was taken from the forests of Rio de Janeiro as a young bird and raised by a kind girl in a small Minnesota town.

When an ornithologist comes to town and informs Blu's now-grown owner Linda that Blu is the last male of his species, Blu and Linda return to Rio so that Blu can mate with a feisty female named Jewel.

Lilo & Stitch

Young orphan Lilo is an Elvis fan who lives with her sister Nani in the beautiful surroundings of Hawaii.

One day Lilo meets a strange alien who she decides to name Stitch and take home as her pet.

Stitch at first causes trouble by destroying everything he can lay his hands on, but as time passes he becomes accustomed to the Hawaiian ways and is accepted as a regular part of the family.

However, with representatives of Stitch's home planet following hot on his heels, it is unclear how long this happy situation can last.

Moana

Moana sets sail on a daring mission to save her people. Along the way, she meets the once mighty demigod Maui–together they cross the ocean on a fun-filled, action-packed voyage.

Shark Tale

A young fish's false reputation as a 'shark slayer' earns him fame...and gets him fitted for cement fins in this animated tale.

Captain Underpants: The First Epic Movie

George Beard and Harold Hutchins are two overly imaginative pranksters who spend hours in a treehouse creating comic books.

When their mean principal threatens to separate them into different classes, the mischievous boys accidentally hypnotize him into thinking that he's a ridiculously enthusiastic, incredibly dimwitted superhero named Captain Underpants.

A Goofy Movie

Max and his dad, Goofy, set out on an epic cross country road trip this summer.

Excitement and adventure await them at every turn as they explore new places and create lasting memories together.

It'll be a trip they'll never forget!

More Summer Activities

Summer is the perfect time to break out the playdough and get creative! These summer playdough ideas will keep the kids busy and screen-free.

Looking for some fun and easy summer craft ideas for toddlers? Look no further! We've gathered some of our favorite crafts that are perfect for little ones.

Looking for a fun summer activity that the whole family can enjoy? Check out this printable summer scavenger hunt! Just download, print, and get started.

Summers are meant for fun! There are many activities that you can do together that will create lasting memories. Here are 27 fun activities to do with your kids this summer.

This set of summer cut and paste activities are perfect for working on important kindergarten and early elementary literacy skills.

Teaching Resources

This Summer Adventure Kit is the PERFECT way to get kids outside and interacting with nature in lots of different ways in the Summer! The kit is filled with fun activities and great boredom busters for those long summer days.

This summer reading log is a great way to keep track of books read during the summer. Happy reading!

While there are plenty of great animated movies to choose from this summer, we’ve narrowed it down to our top twelve picks.

If you’re looking for a family-friendly movie, we’ve got you covered. So put on your favorite pair of PJs, grab some popcorn, and get ready for a night (or day) of fun!

What is your favorite summer animated movie?

The post Summer Animated Movies appeared first on Affordable Homeschooling.

Summer Playdough Ideas

Tara — Sun, 12 Jun 2022 09:00:00 +0000

Summer is the perfect time to break out the playdough and get creative! These summer playdough ideas will keep the kids busy and screen-free.

From edible doughs to beach-themed creations, these playdough recipes and summer activities for kids are sure to provide hours of fun.

With these kids activities for summer, the whole family can enjoy some screen-free time together. So, let's get started!

Playdough Activities for Kids

No matter their age, kids love to play with playdough. And there are plenty of playdough activities that can help them learn and explore.

For example, younger children can practice their fine motor skills by rolling, squishing, and shaping the dough.

Older children can use playdough to create maps, sculptures, or other three-dimensional objects.

And for children who are starting to read and write, spelling words or forming letters with playdough can be a fun way to learn.

Plus, there's just something about getting your hands messy that makes playdough even more fun.

So next time your kids are looking for something to do, break out the playdough and let them have a blast.

If you're looking for some new playdough activities to keep your little ones entertained, here are a few ideas. For starters, try using cookie cutters to create shapes and patterns.

You can also use playdough to practice counting, letter recognition, and simple math concepts. Or, set up an obstacle course and see who can navigate their playdough ball through the challenges the fastest.

And of course, don't forget the classic activity of simply squishing and squashing the dough!

Keep scrolling for some playdough ideas that are perfect for summer…

Summer Playdough Ideas

Summer is the perfect time to pull out the playdough and let your kids' imaginations run wild.

If you're looking for some fun and creative ideas, here are a few to get you started.

Summer Playdough Mats

Your kids are going to have so much fun with these summer playdough mats. Perfect for long, hot summer days!

These free printables are a great way to have kids work on fine motor skills and letter formation.

Play-Doh Ice Cream Truck Playset

All the kids will come running when this Play-Doh ice cream truck comes to your neighborhood!

Pretend play gets even sweeter with lots of ways to get creative!

Photo Credit: theimaginationtree.com

Ocean Play Dough and Loose Parts

Mix up a batch of sparkly ocean playdough for summer sensory play.

Add in some shells, gems, and other beach-themed loose parts for hours of imaginative play for kids of all ages.

Photo Credit: shareasale.com

Picnic Play Dough Sensory Kit

This picnic-themed playdough sensory kit is perfect for pretend picnic play!

It has all the necessary trinkets to create the cutest picnic scene from a piece of fabric cloth and little sandwiches, bananas, oranges to a little cup with crushed crystals as ice!

Photo Credit: www.123homeschool4me.com

Scented Kool Aid Watermelon Playdough - Summer Activity for Kids

Is there anything that screams summertime more than watermelon?

Create a batch of watermelon-scented playdough for a fun activity for kids of all ages!

Play-Doh Drizzy Ice Cream Playset

I scream! You scream! We all scream for ice cream - playdough that is!

Your kids are going to have a blast serving up ice cream with their very own soft-serve machine with pretend chocolate syrup. Yippee!

Photo Credit: shareasale.com

Campfire/Smores Playdough Jar

Time to gather around the campfire for s'mores and ghost stories!

This Playdough Jar comes with everything your child needs to enjoy hours lost in the wilderness of their imagination.

Photo Credit: www.steampoweredfamily.com

Sunflower STEAM Activity with Homemade Playdough

Sneak some STEAM into your day with a batch of homemade playdough and a bowl of sunflower seeds.

This open-ended activity takes on a whole new dimension when you provide your kids with small yellow or black doo-dads in addition to the seeds.

They can decorate their sunflowers however they'd like!

Photo Credit: www.naturalbeachliving.com

Sand Playdough Recipe

This textured playdough is perfect for your beach theme or your summer activity time.

Made with real sand, it feels like wet sand and is sure to remind your kids of their last trip to the beach.

Photo Credit: alittlepinchofperfect.com

Ice Cream Sensory Play: Frosting Play Dough Recipe

For kiddos who still put things in their mouths, this taste safe playdough is made with frosting!

Younger children can use real sprinkles to decorate their cones while older ones can use decorative beads and buttons.

Either way, this activity is sure to be a hit!

Whether you’re looking for a fun activity to keep the kids occupied or want an excuse to get your hands dirty, we’ve got you covered with these summer playdough ideas.

We’d love to hear about your favorite activity in the comments below. Have fun!

The post Summer Playdough Ideas appeared first on Affordable Homeschooling.

Summer Cut and Paste Activities

Tara — Mon, 02 May 2022 09:00:00 +0000

This set of summer cut and paste activities are perfect for working on important kindergarten and early elementary literacy skills.

When you add these cut and paste worksheets to your lesson plans, you also give kids an opportunity to strengthen motor skills as they color, cut, and paste each activity page.

These simple worksheets make learning so much fun for little learners.

These free printables help little ones practice important motor and language skills in a fun and engaging way.

Keep reading to discover all of the skills covered in this fun summer activity for kids.

Cut and Paste Activities

These summer cut and paste worksheets require no preparation. Just print them on regular printer paper. You’ll need the following supplies to complete them:

pencil
crayons
scissors
glue

What's Included?

ABC Order

Teaching ABC order is an essential skill for all ages. In order to properly sort words according to the first letter of each word, students need to have a strong understanding of the alphabet and be able to identify letters clearly and quickly.

This worksheet provides children with an opportunity to alphabetize six summer words to the first letter. They'll strengthen motor skills as they cut and paste the words in order on the page.

Labeling

One way that parents and teachers can help kids develop their vocabulary is with labeling exercises. This involves providing an object or picture and having kids identify the various parts or features of that object or figure.

This printable includes two labeling pages. On each one, kids will cut and paste six labels around the pictures.

Sentence Sequencing

In order to develop strong writing and reading skills, it is important to practice sequencing sentences. This can be done by completing activities that involve putting words and phrases in the proper order.

The summer sequencing worksheet included in this printable instructs students to cut and paste the words of a short sentence in order. Then, they'll write the sentence on the lines provided for a little extra handwriting practice.

NOTE: These summer sentence sequencing worksheets will give your kids even more practice.

Tomato Life Cycle

The tomato is a relatively simple plant with a predictable life cycle. It begins its journey as a seed, which goes through several stages as it develops.

Share the book Tomatoes with your kids. It's a short, nonfiction book demonstrating the life cycle of a tomato. Then, have your children complete the life cycle sequencing worksheet.

Summer Activities for Kids

If your kids enjoy these summer activities, you can expand on the themes and topics included to create a full unit study.

Lemons and lemonade: Help your child make lemonade from scratch. Set up a lemonade stand. Slice a lemon in half and dip it in paint to make lemon prints on paper.

Seasons: Summer is just one of four seasons. Take a moment to teach or review the four seasons with your child.

Sun: Read a short nonfiction book about the sun. Teach kids how it factors into the seasons.

Life Cycle of a Plant: While teaching your little ones about tomato plants, take some time to make sure they know that the tomato grows just like other plants do. You can share these life cycle of a plant worksheets with them, as well.

Summer Books for Kids

Fill your book basket with a great collection of books about summer. Most of these books can be found at your local library or used bookstore.

If you have a hard time finding them, you can order them through my Amazon affiliate links by clicking the images below.

More Cut and Paste Worksheets

If your kids enjoy this summer activity, be sure to check out these additional cut and paste worksheets. Pick and choose a few to add to your upcoming homeschool plans.

Teaching Resources

If you love using peg dogs in your imaginative play area, you don’t want to miss these eco-friendly Summer Peg Dolls decorated with hand painted summery flowers!

Storytelling is part of the learning process. Add some summer story stones to your reading and literacy centers.

The post Summer Cut and Paste Activities appeared first on Affordable Homeschooling.

Kids Activities for Summer

Tara — Mon, 26 Jul 2021 09:00:00 +0000

These kids activities for summer include books, printables, and hands-on activities for kids of all ages.

On the ever-growing list below, you'll find all of the summertime activities I've shared to date.

Scroll through the list to find summer activities as well as activities featuring sharks, whales, ants, and more.

The summer activities featured on this page are sorted by type. You'll find all the printables together, all the crafts together, and so on.

Kids Activities for Summer

Scroll through the list below to find activities your kids will enjoy throughout the summer months.

Summer is a great time to relax and enjoy some downtime, but it can also be a productive season for kids. One way to keep them engaged in learning is to set up a kids summer reading challenge.

Books to Enjoy During the Summer Months

These shark books for preschoolers are perfect for your ocean theme and for Shark Week. And, they’re all less than $5!

Kids of all ages are fascinated by sharks. Use these nonfiction books about sharks to teach them fun facts about these amazing creatures.

What a wonderful collection of books about ants! You’ll find board books, picture books, leveled readers, chapter books, and more!

There’s nothing like a good chapter book to keep kids entertained during the summer. These are some of our favorite summer read alouds that are both challenging and lighthearted.

Summer Printables for Kids

A beach scavenger hunt is the perfect adventure for your next trip to the shore. Can your family find all the items on the list?

Practice sentence sequencing with these summer cut and paste worksheets. They’re great for kindergarten and grade one.

Keep kids occupied and entertained with these printable summer activities for kids. Perfect for all ages!

This summer outdoor scavenger hunt for kids is a great screen-free activity for all ages! Can your kids find all the objects featured?

This shark emotions color and write pack is a fun way to promote social development. Teach little ones about feelings and emotions with these shark activities for kids.

Before heading out on your next camping trip, be sure to print this camping scavenger hunt. There is so much to see around the campsite!

This summer, preschoolers can practice the alphabet with this free watermelon letter recognition activity.

Spring and summer are the perfect time to learn about bees and this bee life cycle playdough mat is perfect for your unit.

Add these shark food chain printables to your ocean or shark-themed unit studies. They’re perfect for Shark Week, too!

Download and print this printable, and have your kids complete the label a shark worksheet. It’s perfect for your summer lesson plans.

Kids will love connecting with nature as they learn about the life cycle of an ant with these printable worksheets.

This summer reading challenge is perfect for kids of all ages. Great for independent readers and bedtime stories alike. Are you up for the challenge?

Looking for a fun summer activity that the whole family can enjoy? Check out this printable summer scavenger hunt! Just download, print, and get started.

This set of summer cut and paste activities are perfect for working on important kindergarten and early elementary literacy skills.

Your kids are going to have so much fun with these summer playdough mats. Perfect for long, hot summer days! These free printables are a great way to have kids work on fine motor skills and letter formation.

Summer Activities for Kids of All Ages

Whether you’re planning an ocean-themed birthday party, celebrating World Ocean Day, or teaching about the ocean, you’re going to love these ocean themed snacks!

Add these whale crafts for kids to your ocean or Jonah and the Whale unit studies. Great for all ages!

Whether you’re gearing up for Shark Week or you’re planning to study sharks in your ocean theme, these shark movies for kids are a must-see!

These shark worksheets for kids are a great resource to have on hand for Shark Week! They also fit well inside your ocean theme.

These ant activities for kindergarten are perfect for kids ages 4-6! Find crafts, printables, books, and more.

Whether you’re looking for something fun to do on a hot summer day or you’re looking for a rainy day activity, your kids will love these summer playdough activities.

We love science activities that are simple to set up! These kid-friendly science experiments with water are perfect for summer or anytime!

Summer is the perfect time to break out the playdough and get creative! These summer playdough ideas will keep the kids busy and screen-free. From edible doughs to beach-themed creations, these playdough recipes and summer activities for kids are sure to provide hours of fun.

That’s it for now! Be sure to check back regularly as this post will be updated often to reflect my newest summertime activities.

If you are looking for something specific, let me know!

The post Kids Activities for Summer appeared first on Affordable Homeschooling.

Summer Playdough Mats

Tara — Mon, 19 Jul 2021 09:00:00 +0000

Your kids are going to have so much fun with these summer playdough mats. Perfect for long, hot summer days!

These free printables are a great way to have kids work on fine motor skills and letter formation. Add them to your summer activities for kids for a fun quiet-time activity.

Summer Playdough Mats

Your preschoolers and young children will strengthen fine motor skills as they roll, pinch, and manipulate playdough to build each of these objects.

They can also practice their handwriting (letter formation) when they trace the name of each object at the bottom of each page.

If your kids aren't ready to work on handwriting, you can work on letter recognition by having them name the letters the spell each word.

What is Included?

This easy printable pack includes eight pages for kids to complete. Each page features a large outline on which children will build the shape out of playdough. Then, there is a dotted word for them to trace at the bottom of each page.

How to Use This Printable

There are a lot of ways you can use this printable pack. No matter which idea you choose, your kids will love them!

On the go…

Print these pages 2 or 4 to a page. Laminate the pages and put them in a zipper pouch with a mini can or two of playdough.

Pull them out at a restaurant as you wait for your food to arrive. Or, use them any other time you need to occupy your kids for a wait.

Make some of the summer items.

Make an ice cream cone for an afternoon snack or some fresh lemonade for a refreshing treat. Build a sandcastle at the beach or in your sandbox.

Summer Books for Kids

Fill your book basket with a great collection of books about summer. Most of these books can be found at your local library or used bookstore.

If you have a hard time finding them, you can order them through my Amazon affiliate links by clicking the images below.

Teaching Resources

If you love using peg dogs in your imaginative play area, you don’t want to miss these eco-friendly Summer Peg Dolls decorated with hand painted summery flowers!

Storytelling is part of the learning process. Add some summer story stones to your reading and literacy centers.

The post Summer Playdough Mats appeared first on Affordable Homeschooling.