May 2006 - Fun in the Sun | TRIS Project | SIU

Fun in the Sun Summer Activities for Your Child

Below is a list of great ideas for this summer. From activities to helpful hints the following websites and short writes will help you and your child have a fun memorable summer.

First begin by getting a camera. You can use the latest camera technology or buy a disposable, whatever fits your budget. As you do the following activities take pictures. Buy a scrapbook from your local Wal-Mart or local department store or create your own. Keep a log of the pictures including dates and a brief description as you take each photo. After you have them developed it will be easier to place them in the scrapbook.

Making a Scrapbook

1. Get two pieces of cardboard. You can get a cardboard box from a local grocery store or the department store.
2. Buy some contact paper of the design of your choice. Contact paper has a stick and peel back.
3. Cut the two pieces slightly bigger than a piece of regular typing paper (8.5 x 11).
4. Lay the two pieces of cardboard on the table next to one another so that the long edges are next to each other.
5. Place a collection of typing paper on one piece of cardboard you cut and have on the table.
6. Place the other piece of cardboard on top. (Like a sandwich)
7. Cut a piece of contact paper large enough to cover each piece of cardboard completely. Cover the cardboard as you peel. Be careful not to get wrinkles in the contact paper.
8. Use a three hole punch and punch the typing paper. Place a sheet on the cardboard and mark the holes so you know exactly where they should be. Then punch the cardboard holes. You can use a single punch but it a little more difficult. Just check the line up of the holes.
9. Find some ribbon that you like.
10. Lace the ribbon through each hole separately so that it holds the book together in three places.
11. Tie the ribbon and now you have a scrapbook.
12. You can use a permanent marker to write on the contact paper or you can use some clear contact paper, or laminating paper, to adhere a photo of your child or family on the front.

Gardening

Last month we mentioned about planting a garden. Here is another web site full of fun gardening ideas that kids can take part in. If you can fill a large container with dirt and plant lettuce, tomatoes and onions, you can allow your child to pick them when you are ready to make a sandwich. Don't forget to take a picture of your child planting, picking, and eating their accomplishment

.

Reading

When the outside summer heat is too hot to endure, beat the heat with a good book. This web site has a list of great summer fun books to read in the cool air-conditioning. Remember to take a picture of your child and the book for the scrapbook.

Fishing

This summer treat can be a lot of fun if you catch fish. If you don't, well let me just say its a new experience. Some local recreation areas have special days when workers spend time with guest teaching them how to bait hooks with worms and how to catch fish. To locate recreational areas near you to see if they offer this fun summer activity do a google search for recreational fishing in _______ and fill in the blank with your surrounding areas.

Water

Water play is always summer fun at its best. Just remember the safety issues that come along with the water. If you, or your child, aren't sure about getting in water remember there are activities such as water balloon fights, water sprinklers, and sponge fights that are always refreshing. This would make a great picture in the scrap book.