Summer can be a fun, yet, frustrating time for parents. During the school year the whole family is on a schedule. Come June (at least in our neck of the woods), kids are ready for down time. Parents, however, have to figure out how to work and provide some entertainment for their kids who are now home all day. Day camps and summer reading programs can help, but it’s also nice to spend time making special summer memories together.

One of the things I plan on since returning to work is to take at least one day off and dedicate it to family. They appreciate knowing I’ll make time for them despite whatever else is going on. Here are some of our favorite summer activities that have created lasting memories for our family.

• Bike rides around town
• Picnics at the park
• Local carnivals and fairs
• Water balloon fights
• Gardening

What are some of your favorite summer activities?