Make this summer the summer your family unplugs and enjoys time together. Unplugging from technology has numerous benefits, including but not limited to building family time and resilience, improving sleep, boosting creativity, and enhancing mental and physical well-being. Interacting with your family members builds strong bonds, which are vital in a world of unknowns in military life. Unplugging allows for more opportunities to practice mindfulness and relaxation techniques, which children and adults can benefit from.
Here are fifteen ways to engage in an unplugged summer moment. Add a few to your weekly activities this summer to build memories as a family or with friends.
- Nature Scavenger Hunt: Create a list of items found in nature (e.g., pine cones, certain types of leaves, rocks) and go on a hunt in a nearby park or walking trail. If you are traveling to a new area and are unsure what to list, check out local naturalist groups.
- Camping: Whether in your backyard or at a campsite, camping offers a great opportunity to disconnect and enjoy nature. Tell stories around the campfire, roast marshmallows, and stargaze.
- Bike Rides: Explore local bike trails or simply ride around the neighborhood. It’s great exercise and a fun way to see the sights.
- Gardening: Start a garden together. Kids can help plant and water the plants and watch them grow. It’s a rewarding and educational activity.
- Beach Day: Spend the day at the beach building sandcastles, collecting shells, and swimming.
- Craft Projects: Create art using materials like paper, paint, and recycled items. Make homemade cards, decorations, or even simple DIY toys.
- Library Visits: Visit the local library to borrow books, attend storytime sessions, and participate in summer reading programs.
- Picnics: Pack a picnic and head to a local park. Enjoy eating outside and playing games like frisbee or tag.
- Hiking: Find kid-friendly hiking trails and explore the outdoors. Look for interesting plants and animals along the way.
- Board Games and Puzzles: Have a family game night with board games and puzzles. It’s a fun way to spend quality time together indoors.
- Cooking Together: Involve the kids in cooking or baking projects. Make homemade pizzas and cookies, or even try making your own ice cream. Don’t know where to start? Check out some cookbooks from the library.
- Visit Museums and Zoos: Many museums and zoos offer hands-on exhibits and activities for kids. It’s a fun and educational outing. Bonus that many museums, zoos, and even aquariums participate in the Blue Star Museums program that runs from Armed Forces Day to Labor Day, offering free admission to active duty military, veterans, and their family members free admission. The program is a joint venture between the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) and Blue Star Families. Check out the Blue Star Museum map here to find a participating museum near you.
- DIY Obstacle Course: Create an obstacle course in your backyard using household items. Challenge each other to see who can complete it the fastest.
- Fishing: If you can access a lake or river, take the kids fishing. It’s a relaxing way to spend time outdoors and teach them a new skill.
- Outdoor Performances: Check out local listings for outdoor concerts, theater performances, or festivals. Many communities offer free or low-cost events during the summer.
These activities provide ample opportunities for family bonding, physical activity, and creativity without the need for screens. Enjoy your unplugged summer!
