Summer’s great… until your kids are “bored” five minutes after waking up, your house looks like a tornado hit it, and the cost of entertainment starts creeping higher than your weekly grocery bill and IYKYK that’s a lot lately. 

If you’re a teacher mom (like me) or really any mom, you know the need to keep kids busy without breaking the bank—or your sanity.

Here are some totally free and easy summer activities that actually work for kids of all ages:

1. Library (With AC!)

Check your local library for:

• Storytime sessions

• Summer reading challenges

• Free craft days or guest performers

📚 Bonus: You get quiet time. They get books. Everyone wins.

2. Scavenger Hunts—Anywhere, Anytime

Create simple hunts with items like:

• Something round

• Something green

• Something that makes noise

🌳 Do it indoors, in your backyard, or at a park. No prep needed—just imagination.

3. Water Play 

No pool? No problem.

• Buckets, cups, old kitchen tools = instant water lab.

• Sprinklers, water balloons, or a simple baby pool = hours of fun.

💦Mom hack: Let them “wash” their bikes, toy cars, or even your actual car.

4. Kids’ DIY Obstacle Course/Forts 

Use:

• Couch cushions, blankets, pillows 

• Painter’s tape for the floor

• Hula hoops, jump ropes, chairs

🏃‍♀️ They’ll burn energy while pretending to be ninjas. Set a timer for added competition! Tell out the floor is lava that gets them every time! 

5.Visit a Fire Station or Police Station

Many local stations are happy to give quick tours—just call ahead. It’s exciting, educational, and FREE.

👮‍♂️ I know from hubby being a LEO many of them have stickers and fun kids things in their cars. IF they are not on a call they love being the hero and talking to kids. At least my LEO doesn’t mind. 

6.Park Hop (My favorite) 

Make a goal to visit 5–10 different playgrounds this summer. Pack snacks, water, and maybe even a full on picnic. Go early it’s hot out!! 

📍Pro tip: Let the kids rate each one out of 10 like tiny food critics. As we know kids are the best critics around and tell us like it is. At least mine do. 

7.Free Local Events

Search your city or town calendar for:

• Outdoor concerts

• Free museum days

• Farmer’s market events with kids’ activities

🗓 Many of these are weekly and low-key. Perfect for late afternoons when the boredom hits hard.

Final Thoughts: Keep It Simple

You don’t need expensive camps or elaborate plans to make memories. Kids just want time, attention, and space to be kids. And some popsicles never hurt.

So here’s your summer reminder: You’re doing enough. Free is fun. And boredom? That’s just creativity waiting to happen.

Need more ideas for busy teacher moms?

🎉 Check out my NEW weekly chaos recap: The Sunday Spilled Tea. 🫖 **Premiers this Sunday**

📲 Follow along on IG @laurenteachermom for real-life, real-fun tips!