Kids count down to summer break for months. When school finally ends, those long days stretch out in front of them like an open field. While some experts, like Dr. Stuart Brown, say a bit of boredom actually sparks creativity, kids can still use a nudge to jumpstart their days (just think of that classic first-week slump where the shine wears off and out comes the “I’m bored” chorus). That’s where a summer bucket list comes in handy. I’ve seen it work with both younger kids and teens—give them a few ideas and suddenly the backyard, kitchen, or even local library feels new again. This list isn’t about rigid plans. It’s more of a menu—a mix of small adventures, creative projects, and simple joys that you can pick from, depending on your mood or the weather. I find that having a list posted on the fridge or tucked in a shared family space helps everyone chip in ideas, swap stories, and maybe even revisit a favorite from last summer.
The ultimate super fun in the sun summer bucket list
- Do a summer reading challenge
- Go rollerskating
- Learn skateboard tricks
- Sow vegetable seeds and nuture them
- Keep a summer journal
- Create a family picture wall diary
- Keep a summer scrapbook
- Learn how to use a camera
- Start a nature collection
- Bake cookies every week
- Set a sporting target
- Write a story book
- Build a den
- Raise caterpillars
- Grow crystals
- Go GeoCaching
- Raise money for charity
- Hold a garage sale
- Create a local kids newspaper
- Research your family tree
- Create a star chart
- Build a go-cart
- Write and film a movie
- Keep a nature journal
- Volunteer in the community
- Make popsicles
- Blow bubbles
- Go to the beach
- Toast marshmallows
- Make a campfire
- Have a picnic
- Ride a bike
- Read a series of books
- Fly a kite
- Go fishing
- Make pizza
- Go to the zoo
- Make a suncatcher
- Paint rocks to leave at the park
- Curate a family movie night
- Play volleyball
- Make ice cream in a bag
- Go berry picking
- Have a sleepover
- Make friendship bracelets
- Have a pool party
- Collect shells at the beach
- Catch fireflies
- Have a dance party
- Have a backyard campout
- Make fresh fruit gummies
- Have a water balloon fight
- Build a fort
- Make a candy salad
- Make s’mores
- Visit a water park
- Go for a hike
- Run barefoot in the grass
- Make water gun art
- Use a jump rope
- Gaze at the stars
- Visit the aquarium
- Make lemonade
- Play frisbee
- Make slime
- Go to a drive-in movie
- Make puppets and do a show
- Host a talent show
- Visit a museum
