Yay! Today is the official first day of Summer.  This day is also often said to be the longest day of the year. This is because people believe that there is more sunlight on this day than on any other. It is true that the days have been getting longer and the nights shorter. The sun is higher in the sky and takes a longer path across our sky, giving us more daylight. That, combined with the more direct rays of sunshine, give us the warm summer season.

But enough with the scientific aspect of the day!  Summer means: beaches, water, sun, sand, boating and playing outdoors among many other things.  So today should be an awesome day – and most of your kids are out of school – to celebrate the beginning of summer.  Here are some ideas for what to do:

• Head to the Beach- This is the greatest way to celebrate (in my opinion) because the beach is the epitome of summer.   If you live near an ocean or a lake, grab the lounge chairs, sand toys and pack up a big cooler full of sodas, juice, water and sandwiches.  If you don’t live near any water, then might I suggest one of these other outings?
• Ride Around the Amusement Park- These places are awesome and there are so many of them around the country.  Disneyland is always fantastic, but I’m sure you can find a Six Flags around!  And don’t just think about roller coaster parks, why not head to a Water Park?  These will be just as much fun as an Amusement Park, but your kids can be wet and cool the whole time.  Don’t have the financial resources for either of these trips?  Then head to a Pier Amusement Park at a coast near you.  They usually have free entry’s but give you cheap rides, games, food and a gorgeous view.
• Have a Pool Party- This is a fun, fun, fun way to enjoy the day at home.  If you have kids, let them invite their friends and their friends parents (for you!).  This way, you are not completely responsible for watching all those kids around water and the parents can each bring a food dish or snack for a stress free party.  Just go out and pick up some pool toys: floaties, noodles, tubes, goggles etc.  And play games with the kids!  Teach them pool games like Shark, Colors and Marco Polo.  You’ll be sure to have a great day.
• Go on a Picnic- Or for a relatively free fun-filled day, go to a local park to enjoy a picnic.  Bring a blanket, a cooler, fried chicken and peanut butter and jelly sandwiches.  Mmmm.  I just want to go now!  If you’ve got kids, it’s best to go to one with a good playground so they will be active and have fun.  If you get their early enough, you can have a nice spot nearby the play area so you can watch you children soak up the sun.