School’s out, the days are long, and summer offers the perfect opportunity for families to reconnect, recharge, and make memories that last a lifetime. At Mom’s Choice Awards®, we know that the best family moments often come from simple joys, creative activities, and products that bring everyone together. Whether you’re planning a full-blown vacation or looking for meaningful fun right at home, we’ve rounded up a list of MCA-approved ideas to help make your summer unforgettable.

1. Create a Backyard Adventure

You don’t need to travel far to spark a sense of wonder—just step outside. Turn your backyard into a haven for creativity and exploration. Pitch a tent for a night under the stars, make s’mores over a fire pit (or in the microwave!), or set up a scavenger hunt. Use MCA award-winning outdoor toys and activity kits to fuel the fun and keep kids engaged.

2. Take the Learning Outside

Summer doesn’t mean learning has to stop. It just means it gets more fun! Try “edu-tainment” by combining outdoor play with learning experiences. Plan a bug safari, a star-gazing night, or a DIY water filtration experiment. Many MCA-winning books and games support hands-on learning in a playful way that keeps brains sharp and spirits high.

3. Plan a Weekly Family Theme Day

Choose a theme for each week and plan meals, crafts, movies, and activities around it. Think “Ocean Week,” “Space Explorers,” or “Carnival Day.” This adds excitement and structure to summer downtime.

4. Volunteer Together

One of the best ways to bond as a family is by giving back. Summer is an ideal time to teach kids about empathy and community service. Whether it’s a beach cleanup, assembling care kits, or planting a community garden, volunteering helps children build compassion and confidence.

5. Screen-Free Creative Time

While a movie night is great now and then, summer is a great time to reduce screen time and boost creativity. Set up a daily “creation station” stocked with art supplies, recycled materials, and building kits. Encourage kids to invent, draw, or write stories.

6. Explore Local Gems

Chances are, there are parks, trails, museums, and local farms nearby that you’ve never explored. Make a “Summer Passport” filled with places to visit. Each outing becomes an adventure to stamp in your family’s summer memory book.

7. Family Reading Challenge

Start a summer reading challenge where each family member picks books to read individually and together. Track progress with a reading chart and celebrate milestones with fun rewards like an ice cream outing or choosing the next family movie.

Make This Summer One to Remember

Whether you’re staying close to home or exploring new places, what matters most is the time spent together. The summer months are a golden opportunity to bond as a family, encourage curiosity, and nurture joy in everyday moments.

At Mom’s Choice Awards®, we’re proud to celebrate products and resources that empower families to live, learn, and laugh together. Explore our full list of MCA honorees to find trusted tools and toys that can help make your summer the best one yet.

Wishing your family a season filled with sunshine, smiles, and shared adventures.