5 Ways to Make Sweet Summer Memories
This may be the summer of staying home, but that doesn’t mean it will be a summer to forget. Even though some experts state that children don’t begin to form memories until the age of 3, other experts explain that children form one type of memory well before then: what is called an implicit memory, which is not a recollection of something specific but rather a recollection of an emotion they had. That means kids remember a lot more than we give them credit for!
Below, are some at-home activities that are sure to leave your kids with an ever-lasting, sweet memory.
Road Trip Games
Just because you’re not going on an actual road trip this summer doesn’t mean you can’t play those fun road trip games right in your own neighborhood. There’s perhaps nothing better than an early evening summer walk (and yes, getting the kids out of the house and releasing some of that pent-up energy is a huge plus!), yet just taking a walk can get super boring for kids.
So, why not give them some fun games to play on their walk? You can assign each kiddo a color to spot, can play the I Spy game where you guess what the other person is looking at, or can even create bingo cards of objects found in your neighborhood.
Drive-Through Movie Night
Drive-through movies don’t have to be a thing of the past, especially when you can recreate the experience for your kids right at home. If you have a backyard, the next things you need are just a video projector and a white sheet to act as the screen. You can then set up a concession stand with popcorn and drinks and cuddle together as the movie plays. If you don’t have a backyard space, then you can get an assist from your smart home. Dim the lights and get the movies going by using a few voice commands.
Camper Talent Show
Kids usually create magical memories at summer camp, and you can create those same memories right in your living room or backyard by hosting a camper talent show. Give your kids some time to put together a special dance, song, stand-up act, or show that they can then present to the whole family. You could even create a real-life homemade stage out of cardboard or curtains.
Home Baking
Perhaps some of your favorite memories are of all the sweet treats you made with your mother or grandmother. The shared experience of baking with your family can create those implicit memories where every time you take a bite of a certain muffin or cake, you’re instantly transported to another time. This summer, create those same good feelings and memories with your kids by embarking on some home baking fun. Think about putting a fun summer twist on your favorites: s’mores chocolate chip cookies, summer berry cupcakes, and even homemade apple pie.
Board Game Night
Perhaps the best way to create memories with your kids is just spending time with them. One way to do this is by having a weekly summer board game night. Your kids will never remember if they won or lost, but they will remember being with you, laughing, being happy, and feeling carefree.