36 Hawaii Parent March/April 2026 riding, magic, modeling, sports, or swimming. Children will have the ability to focus on the activity in a way that might not be possible during the hectic school year. Many of these are phenomenal options to get the kids outdoors and exercising as well. Stay-At-Home Summer There’s nothing wrong with a stay-at-home summer, and this doesn’t literally mean you have to “stay at home.” If you’re in the position to spend the summer days with your child, take advantage of it and plan fun activities in the home or around the island. Consider spending a day at the North Shore, enjoying the beach, lunch, and browsing rustic shops. Consider visiting the zoo or aquarium for a day of exploration and learning. At home, collect photos from your outings and create a scrapbook with your child to celebrate summer memories. The home is also a great place to nurture your child’s love of art and music. Alternatives For Teens Teenagers might be looking for a way to make some quick cash. If your child is not old enough to apply for a job, suggest mowing lawns or babysitting to make money and develop a strong work ethic. Teens will obtain a sense of pride in the money they make since it was earned and not handed to them. They will also be likely to learn the importance of saving and not blowing all their hard-earned money on frivolous purchases. Volunteering is also an option – and it looks great on college applications. Have your child choose a cause and explain the importance of the work he will be doing. Volunteering is a rewarding experience in that your child will have the chance to contribute to a good cause. If your child is of age, consider a driver’s education course, as summer is the perfect time to learn the rules of the road and obtain a permit or license. They will have enough time to rack up driving hours with mom, dad, and their driving instructors. Whatever summer activity your child participates in will have a lasting effect on their life. It could open the door to a new hobby, keep them from falling behind in school, or inspire creativity. Remember that along with these activities, children deserve a little rest and relaxation, and they deserve those rewarding moments of simply being a kid. Summer will fly by, so soak up every moment – and keep the lemonade coming!
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