As we spend our summer days outside in the sun, coming up with vacation plans, or just having downtime at home, it’s important to make those moments with your family count. As much as you can try to plan out activities and trips to the beach that will last a lifetime, the truth is — finding quality time with family is more about being present with each other and making memories than actually trying to make a plan. And that very often doesn’t cost a thing. Here are some of our favorite budget-friendly activities that will make summer memories special for the entire family.
Summer Reading
Enroll the children in a library summer reading program and get involved yourself! Read together or host a family book club discussion over dinner.
Cook Together
Eating freshly prepared food is good for the heart, soul and the belly! Sharing the ritual of cooking with your kids is one of the best ways to show that you trust them.
Make Popsicles
If cooking a whole meal with the kids is too stressful, try making a fresh summer treat instead! Mix up some fruit juices and pour them in an ice cube tray. Cover the ice cube tray with plastic wrap. Poke a toothpick in each ice cube and let it freeze overnight. Have some fruit that’s almost too ripe? Mash them up in a food processor or blender and use them in place of the fruit juice for a frozen smoothie instead. Brainstorm a name for your popsicle flavor and enjoy it the next day in the backyard.
Library Playdates
With so many nooks, crannies, and stories, the library is always a breeding ground for adventure! Check out a few books and movies. Make friends with other patrons and the librarians. They’re a priceless community resource!
Go For A Hike
Summer is the best time to get out and explore Mother Nature! Make sure to apply sunscreen and grab a water bottle before you head out. Our favorites are the Pine Creek Canyon Trail and the Calico Tanks Trail in Las Vegas; and the Cullinan Three Sisters Trail and the Justin P. Brindley Trail in Sugar Land, Texas.
Neighborhood Scavenger Hunt
Sometimes adventure is literally right outside your door! Your family will get exercise, sun, and fresh air with good competitive fun when looking for interesting things in the neighborhood. Start with this list of common outdoor items, or come up with a list of wildlife, flowers, cars–anything, really!–together!
Picnic at the Pool
Pack a picnic or order a Kid’s Quesadilla, Jalapeno Ballz, and handmade Agua Frescas to enjoy poolside!
Family Sundays: Quality Time and Quality Food For Everyone
When it’s quality time you’re looking for, stop in to Ori’Zaba’s! Family Sundays at Ori’Zaba’s are our way of taking care of you, our family. Kids Eat Free with the purchase of any adult meal – every Sunday! We’ll treat your kid to a meal and set the mood with a family-friendly atmosphere.