I know all parents are breathing heavy, shedding tears, and in celebration that another school year is almost over. Some parents are witnessing their child turn into adult by graduating high school, others are watching their child start their careers and end their college years. As a parent myself, I have a child graduating from kindergarten and one graduating from High school and one who is going to be a sophomore. I am feeling all of the emotions right now.
But as the schools close the doors, I realize that summer break can seem like a blessing and a challenge for us parents. The kids are super excited to be free from the stringent school routine, but keeping them entertained and working full time is a task in itself.
In this economy, the summer can easily break the bank! With some careful planning and using community resources- you can have a fun filled summer! Activities at the top of my list are:
City parks
Public Libraries
State Parks
Free Activities
Let’s talk about some of Kentucky’s amazing city parks! City parks are often overlooked as a place for fun and adventure. My 5 year old, absolutely would love to spend a whole afternoon at a city park. It wasn’t just about the swings and slides; the park became our little adventure zone. Most city parks are starting to integrate nature trails, story boards, splash pads and more!
Florence, KY has some wonderful parks maintained by the city; Lincoln Woods, Orleans, South Fork, and the Nature Park.
We love the splash pad in Wilder, Kentucky. Wilder City Center Park is amazing! My daughter begs me to go there. It is right next to the Wilder Fire Department.
There is one privately owned park that we will definitely be going back to and that is Bernheim Arboretum and Research Forest! It is over 16,000 acres. It has woodlands, prairies and wetlands! The park offers kids playgrounds, walking trails, and these huge woodland creatures!
Don’t sleep on your public libraries! Public libraries are a great resource in communities. Public libraries offer so many free activities during the summer, from summer reading programs, story times, Zumba, music, and STEAM activities!
Check out your local public libraries schedule- for Kentucky residents: Summer Reading Programs: Many libraries across Kentucky, including those supported by the Kentucky Department for Libraries and Archives, will be hosting summer reading programs. These programs aim to keep children engaged with reading through various activities and incentives. They are designed to prevent the "summer slide" and help children maintain their reading skills over the summer (KYDLA) (Kentucky Department of Education).
Kentucky and bordering states have some A-MA-ZING state parks. Here are some state parks in Kentucky that are super cool!
Big Bone Lick State Historic Site (Union, KY)- known as the “Birthplace of American Vertebrate Paleontology,” this site offers hiking trails, a visitor center, and a bison herd to observe.
Red River Gorge Geological Area (Slate, KY)- great spot for hiking, exploring natural arches, and the scenic views!!
Breaks Interstate Park (Breaks, VA)- known as the Grand Canyon of the South! You will not be disappointed with the trails and the amazing views!
Another, don’t break the bank, summer activity are activities offered in your community for FREE! There are so many local events that are absolutely free for kids! Utilize free admission days at museums, colleges, and extension centers!
Keeping your kids busy during the summer doesn’t have to be stressful or expensive. By exploring city parks, taking advantage of our wonderful public libraries, and seeking out free educational activities, you can create a summer filled with adventure, learning, and fun!
Here is a tip to get your kids involved- make a list of places and events you can fill up the calendar with this summer and allow your kids to pick and choose what they want to go do. It builds excitement, but it also helps in planning your weeks. Plus- checking off items from a list is oddly satisfying for both kids and parents.
While all are not free- Here are some things I have added to my list for this summer’s adventures:
Malibu Jacks in Ashland, KY
Kentucky Kingdom, in Louisville, KY
Sheltowee Falls Splash Pad in Morehead, KY
Beech Bend Park & Splash Lagoon, Bowling Green, KY
Rodburn Hollow Park in Morehead, KY
McConnell Springs Park in Lexington, KY
Legacy Grove Park in Winchester, KY
Kentucky horse park in Lexington, KY
Woodland Aquatic Center in Lexington, KY
The Highlands Museum & Discovery Center in Ashland,KY
Eden Park in Cincinnati, OH
Rowe Woods, Milford, OH
What are your favorite parks or places to visit this summer?
With love,
Jessica
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