July is National Anti-Boredom Month. Why July? It seems after the fourth, people are at a loss for things to do. However, there are tons of ways to cure boredom. There are things you can do outside this summer to stay occupied, but even when it gets too hot and you have to head indoors, there are so many activities to keep busy.

DREAM works to keep at risk youth out of trouble by offering after school and athletic programs, and team mentoring. By providing them with things to do, we’re able to keep them away from risky behavior such as drugs and alcohol. We want to give them the opportunity to grow to their full potential with no distractions.

Check out these things your kids can do to stay active and engaged this summer!

1. Build a fort. Use couch cushions, pillows, sheets, and blankets to build the coolest little space to hang out in.
2. Get creative with arts and crafts. Drawing, painting, and coloring in a coloring book are simple ways to get the creative juices flowing.
3. Put on a show. Lots of preparation goes into making a stage and putting together an idea for a show; let your kids’ imagination flow by letting them put on a show for you.
4. Go on a picnic. Since the weather is nice out, it’s a great idea for a picnic; go to a local park with a quilt and some snacks.
5. Go on a scavenger hunt. You can easily create a scavenger hunt for your kids by hiding household items around the house and giving them clues to find them.
6. Play with science experiments or magic tricks. Learning something new with science or magic is a fun way to keep your kids entertained.
7. Fill out the Mad Libs. You can find these online if you don’t have the paper book; these are sure to get you laughing.
8. Camp in the backyard. You don’t always have to go on a whole trip to go camping; setting up a campsite in the backyard and making some smores is a great idea for family night.
9. Learn a musical instrument. This can peak an interest in your kids, too. Maybe they’ll find an instrument they really like and want to continue pursuing.
10. Get your body moving. Your kids can do this through exercising, swimming, dancing, stretching, or going on a walk.
11. Cook a new recipe. Do your kids like being in the kitchen? Find a new and interesting recipe and try it out!
12. Call a family member or friend. A phone call is a great way to spark up a conversation, and it’s likely your family and friends will love hearing from your kids.
13. Write and send a handwritten letter. Your family members and friends would also adore receiving a letter from your kid in the mail.
14. Watch a movie. Make your home like the movie theater with popcorn and candy, and relax with a good movie.
15. Volunteer your time. There are several local organizations always looking for volunteers. 
16. Read a book or go to the library. Take your kids to the library and let them pick out a book to read.
17. Take a nap. Napping is necessary for the younger kids, but your older ones may find it enjoyable to catch some zzz’s. 
18. Listen to music. Don’t be afraid to turn up the volume a little bit and have a jam session.
19. Plant a garden. This can be a fun activity because if your plants do well, you’ll have fresh produce from your own yard.
20. Complete a puzzle or play a board game. Puzzles and games usually take quite a bit of time, and they’re a great way to keep the brain active.
21. Visit a museum. There are lots of free or inexpensive museums and displays including the Durham Museum and the Children’s Museum.
22. Start thinking about your Halloween costume. It’s never too early to get a head start on Halloween costumes, try and use items and clothing you already have and come up with something spectacular.

DREAM wants to keep giving at risk youth life-changing opportunities. If you’re interested in how you can become a part of this organization or want to mentor at risk youth, feel free to contact us. We’re always looking for bright and unique people to join the team!