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Home › Articles › Activities › Send Out Summer in Style

Send Out Summer in Style

5 Fun End-of-Summer Activities

By Amy Carey

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5. Dive In

Whether you're teaching your kids the backstroke or just splashing around in the shallow end of the pool, no summer is complete without swimming. Ryan Young of Oakland, Calif., agrees. He takes his son to a nearby "swimming hole," which is a "totally artificial, but totally wonderful" man-made pond with a beach, diving floats and a snack bar. "I love going there with my 5-year-old and his buddies," he says.

Swimming is not just a great way to cool off, it's also good exercise. Through swimming, "Kids learn that the family considers physical activity is important," says Charles Kuntzleman, adjunct associate professor of kinesiology at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor. "Parent and child connect. Children learn motor skills, which will make them confident to use their bodies. Children learn to challenge their bodies. Just keep in mind that the activities are to be fun, largely non-competitive and geared toward the children."

"The best part of these activities to me is building positive memories," says Wayne Parker, father of five and guide for About.com's fatherhood site. "[Author] Stephen Covey talks about the 'emotional bank account.' I see summer activities as making deposits into those accounts for our children."

When summer's over and it's back to indoor playdates and chilly winter evenings, your kids will remember that afternoon you spent on the lake, at the park or in the woods – and so will you.

Choosing a Baby Backpack

A baby backpack gives your child a view of the world he'd never see from a stroller. How to choose the one that is right for you? Consider these factors:

How much do you want to spend?
Backpacks range in price. If new backpack prices seem too steep, consider a used backpack, especially if you know someone with older children who has one in good condition. When deciding how much to shell out for this type of carrier, keep in mind that your child will outgrow most backpacks within three years or so. Take into consideration how many other kids in your family will use the backpack over the years.

How often will you use it and where?
If you're a frequent hiker who takes day-long treks through rough terrain, you'll want to invest in a top-quality carrier with all the bells and whistles. But if you want something to use for a jaunt around the zoo or even through the farmer's market, a lower-end model might be sufficient. For longer hikes, consider a pack with a rain and sun hood and additional storage pouches.

Will you be sharing it with your partner?
Ease of adjustment is key if you'll be sharing the backpack with your spouse or other adult. A carrier that takes a genius several hours to adjust will be of little use to you. Some carriers are easier to adjust than others. Ask your friends which backpacks they find easiest to manage, or try a few models out at the store.


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