What Are You Doing for Fun this Summer?

Eight long years ago, I gave up my teaching career to stay home and raise my children.  One big dream of mine was to raise my kids like my mom raised me.  Four years ago we moved to the country (sort of) so that I could provide wonderful memories for my kids like my mom gave me. 

Almost all of the things I do with my kids (and the many other kids that flock to my home daily) are FREE, like walking in the woods, picking berries and wildflowers, having picnic lunches, riding bikes and so much more.

Along with the free play and FREE outdoor fun, I enjoy tossing in something fun and different each year that we can do at home to keep boredom at bay.

Last year I invested in a small inflatable bounce house like the one above.  These can even be used indoors during the cold months!  The price on these has come down considerably since I bought ours!

This 2010 Intex "Phthalate Free" Jump-O-Lene Inflatable Castle Bounce Bouncer is just $52.95!  We have gotten a lot of use out of ours!  It is still a big hit with all the kids.

This year I am purchasing the Pacific Play Tents Playchute 10' Parachute for $20.67.  I have great memories of using these in elementary school!  These can also be used indoors during the winter months and is small enough for a small group.

The sprinkler pictured above is also a huge hit!  You can purchase the Little Tikes Super Spiral Sprinkler at Walmart for $20 or less. 

Using these "fun day" activities not only keeps boredom at bay, but saves me money!  I buy one or two items per year which costs me less than a single trip to a water park or admission to the movies!  I am certain my kids will be making great momories with fun, physical activities with friends at home!

What do you do at home to keep boredom at bay during the summer?