Written by MomsTribute Inc. Author Katie C
As the warm rays of summer start to shine through, many of us working moms face the perennial challenge of keeping our kids entertained and engaged. Balancing work and family life is no small feat, but with a bit of planning and creativity, we can ensure our children have a summer packed with fun, learning, and unforgettable memories. One delightful way to spend those sunny days is by attending summer rodeos like the Lone Star Rodeo - a circuit which travels widely in the southeast of the US with an annual stop in our area. We’ve just finished our local rendition of this circuit, and my kids had the time of their lives.
But rodeos are just one option. Keep reading to dive into some easy ideas that can keep your kids happy and busy all summer long!
Nothing quite captures the spirit of summer like a lively rodeo. The Lonestar Rodeo, a favorite for my family, is a fantastic event that promises endless entertainment for kids of all ages. The electric atmosphere, thrilling performances, and vibrant music create an experience that’s hard to beat.
We started our evening at the rodeo with a free pony ride for our son. Once that was done, we were quick to buy concessions and find our seats. If your local rodeo spot has traditional bleachers, you might want to bring cushions (we found that three hours on the stadium seats was a bit…uncomfortable).
From the time the first act began, our kids were wide-eyed with excitement as they watched cowboys and cowgirls showcasing their skills in bull riding, barrel racing, and calf roping. During the intermission, the rodeo even put on an event for the kids to join the cowboys down in the arena. Our kids were on cloud nine!
Beyond the main events, the rodeo offered a treasure trove of activities. I mentioned the pony rides, but there was also a gift shop (in a tent), snow cones, and a mechanical bull. Rodeos like Lone Star are an excellent way for your kids to experience a slice of Americana while having loads of fun! The Lone Star Rodeo Company travels throughout the southeast to states including Maryland, Tennessee, Kentucky, Virginia, Alabama, Mississippi and West Virginia.
To make planning even easier, be sure to download the free KFV app. This handy tool keeps you up to date on all the best places to visit with your family, including events like the Lonestar Rodeo. The app offers detailed reviews and tips, making it your go-to resource for a fantastic summer.
If you don’t have rodeos near you, don’t worry! There are plenty of other summertime activities to fill your days with memories. Summer is the perfect time for kids to strengthen their friendships. Coordinate with other moms in your community to organize regular playdates. Whether it’s a simple picnic at the park, a backyard water balloon fight, or a craft session, these meet-ups can provide your children with ample social interaction and playtime. We have recently made plans with one of my son’s classmates to meet up over the summer. Both myself and the classmate’s mother work, so we will work around those schedules!
Another engaging option is to join community group activities. Many local organizations and community centers host summer programs that include sports, arts and crafts, and other fun-filled activities. These programs not only keep kids occupied but also help them learn new skills and make new friends.
For middle schoolers and high schoolers, summer is an ideal time to instill values of responsibility and compassion through volunteering. There are plenty of opportunities where they can make a difference while staying engaged. Our daughter has been “hired” by our local library to volunteer during their “Summer Reading Program” for children. She’ll spend several days this summer honing her skills and gaining some independence.
Animal shelters are another great option. Many shelters look for volunteers to help care for animals, clean enclosures, or assist with adoption events. The joy of spending time with animals and the sense of fulfillment from helping them can be incredibly rewarding for your kids. It’s a win-win: your children stay busy and happy, and they contribute positively to the community.
Whatever plans you make this summer, don’t forget to make time for downtime, too. Kids deserve a bit of relaxation after a long academic season.
If you’re looking for more kids friendly venue ideas then check out the MomsTribute listing of blogs by our team of moms like you! It’s a top mom place for blogs and a treasure trove of insights and recommendations, specially curated for busy moms. From the best playgrounds and amusement parks to hidden gems in your local area and great time management tips, MomsTribute.com has got you covered.
As working moms, we wear many hats, and ensuring our kids have a memorable summer is high on the list. By exploring the excitement of summer rodeos, organizing playdates, encouraging volunteer work, and balancing active days with relaxing moments, we can create a summer filled with joy, learning, and lasting memories. With a little thought and planning, the possibilities are endless!
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