I recently heard these days called the dog-days of summer. While I’m not sure exactly what that means, I get a picture in my mind of a blazing hot sun and a lazy dog with his tongue hanging to his feet. There are certainly days when I feel just like that myself. It takes an extra amount of energy to try new things, it seems. Still, there are a slew of things to do on a hot summer day. Sometimes it helps to make a list of ideas.
Go to the library. This is one of my daughter’s favorite places. When it’s too hot to even think about the park, we head to the library. Libraries often have computers with kid-friendly activities, and of course, they have tons of books. And it is cool inside! Even on cooler days the library can be a good place to entertain the kids. Many people live within walking distance of their local library, so you can walk or bike there for some exercise along the way.
Go to a farmers’ market. This time of year farmers’ markets are springing up all over with an abundance of freshly-picked produce. This kind of food is the best in taste and in nutrients. A surprising number of nutrients are lost when produced is shipped over many days. The best way to have the most nutritious food is too eat it when it’s picked ripe. Farmers’ markets are also a fun experience for kids. They love to see the many varieties of food and help pick them out. Another fun idea is to go to you-pick farms where you can actually pick your own berries or other fruit. My kids are a little too young for this, but I can’t wait to try this in a few years.
These are just a couple of thoughts to make it through a hot week with restless kids. I’m sure there are many other ideas. I’d love to hear them!
Oh we've been doing the u-pick farms! My kids LOVE them. Even Carter who really doesn't have a clue loves to pick and eat them. Sometimes he eats the green ones, but it is still fun. The fruit is so much cheaper than you can get in the store and it is a fun way for the family to bond AND get the local fruit/veg. in season. Last night we went to a u-pick farm that has an ice-cream shop on the premises and you can pick whatever fruit is in season you want and they will make you an icecream bowl or milk shake with fresh picked berries and sauce made from them.
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