Looking for ways to keep the kids happy, busy, and screen-free this summer? You’re in the right place! Here at Mess for Less, we have tons of Summer Activities for Kids. You'll find ideas that are easy, fun, and designed to keep kids engaged on those long sunny days.
Whether you're planning backyard play, rainy day crafts, or boredom-busting games, you'll find plenty of inspiration here.

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Why You'll Love Summer Activities for Kids
- They’re simple, screen-free ways to keep little hands busy.
- Perfect for filling those “I’m bored” moments without breaking the bank.
- Many use supplies you already have at home, so you don't have to spend extra money or run to the store at the last minute.
- Great for a mix of ages, so siblings can play together.
- Helps you create fun memories with the kiddos without the stress.
Summer Art for Kids
These fun, low-mess projects are perfect for warm days. Each of these art projects encourages children to use their imagination as they are having fun. Many of these kids art ideas are great when you want your child to take a break from an active activity.

Kids Summer Crafts
Want to add a little creativity to those long summer days? From colorful art projects to easy DIYs made with everyday supplies, these crafts will keep children happily engaged.They’re great for quiet time, playdates, or just a fun afternoon at the kitchen table.
- Bubbling Shell Craft
- Kids Olympic Games Craft
- 20 Summer Activities for Preschoolers
- 20 Popsicle Stick Crafts and Activities

Summer Printables
Summer Printables make it so easy to keep kids engaged without a big setup. Think scavenger hunts, activity packs, coloring pages, and fun learning games. All you have to do is downloaf and print!
They’re perfect for road trips, quiet time, or rainy days when the kids keep complaining that they are bored. Plus, they sneak in a little learning while still feeling like play.
- Summer Bookmarks To Color
- Summer Bingo
- Free Summer Tracing Printables
- Beach Scavenger Hunt Printable

Summer Play Ideas
These fun play ideas get kids moving, laughing, and using their imaginations. Whether it’s water play in the backyard, messy play outdoors, or classic games with a summer twist, these ideas help turn ordinary days into an adventure.
- Sand Playdough Recipe
- Playing with Mud
- Outdoor Math Game
- Fun Kids Game - Cup and Water Race
- 10 Ice Play Activities
- 10 Pool Games for Kids
- 25 Outdoor Learning Games
- Outdoor Color Station
- Water Balloon Phonics
- Water Balloon Hunt
- Duck Tape® Boat Races

Essential Supplies for Kids' Summer Activities
Having a few simple supplies on hand makes setting up these summer activities so much easier. Some supplies that we use again and again are sidewalk chalk, water balloons, craft supplies, and some recyclables for creative projects.
Sunny Days Entertainment Sidewalk Chalk Set for Kids with Storage,Bunch O Balloons 100 Grenade Rapid-Filling Self-Sealing Water Balloons by
Guirnd 12PCS Colored Masking Tape, Kids Art Supplies, DIY Craft
Dan&Darci Arts and Crafts Vault - Craft Supplies Kit in
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