It’s time to make new memories with family and friends as summer vacation has arrived. Amid [sibling] rivalries and budding friendships, you might be scratching your head wondering how to kick things off.
From adventurous family bonding to artsy camping activities, we have two magical summer activities that will help you weave together creativity and adventure. These ideas are sure to guarantee an extra special summer twinkle.
Sparkling Spongebob Paintings
Who lives in a pineapple and makes for a very colorful art project? That’s right, Spongebob Squarepants. This activity guarantees colorful fun for kids of all ages and is sure to unleash their imaginations with crafting sparkles.
Supplies Needed
Here’s everything you’ll need to create your masterpiece(s):
• Canvas or sturdy paper
• Washable acrylic paints (yellow, blue, red, green, black, white)
• Various sizes of paint brushes
• Plate for color mixing
• Glitter glue or sprinkles for that perfect sparkly finale.
• Cup of water with paper towels for brush cleaning
• Optional stencils for Spongebob’s face.
Step by Step guide instructions
1. Prepare the Space
Cover your work area with a newspaper or a plastic sheet to protect it from splatter.
2. Sketch Spongebob’s figure
Using a pencil, outline Spongebob’s facial features and body. Alternatively, you can use the stencil provided.
3. Fill the outline in with base colors
Use a yellow paint to fill in the outline, while adding extras like blue eyes, a white shirt, brown shorts, a red tie, and the best of all, a huge grin!
4. Put in Additional Features
Use a smaller brush for more accuracy, adding details like his eyelashes and the spotted detailing of his body.
5. Shimmering Effects
Add the extra sparkle after the paint is dried by sprinkling loose glitter or adding glitter glue to the background or tie.
6. Final Touches
Once the images is dry, you can hang it up or give it to a Spongebob fan.
Helpful Tips
• Have paper towels on hand for any accidental clean ups.
• For young children, lightly sketch the outline first to simplify the process.
• To avoid a mess when using loose glitter, sprinkle it onto the still wet paint.
• Inspire children to let their imagination flow, adding in jellyfish or their favorite character Patrick.
Bonfire S’mores For Sweet Summer Nights
Making S’mores while sitting by a bonfire is one of the most beloved summer activities. As a family, or with friends, this is one cozy summer evening that will be cherished for years to come.
Essential Ingredients
To make the perfect s’mores with family, consider adding the goodies to your shopping list. Don’t forget those delicious graham crackers and marshmallows! Remember to adjust the quantity based on the group size.
• Large Marshmallows (the bigger the better!)
• Graham Crackers
• Milk or Dark Chocolate bars (for a tiramisu treat)
• Long roasting sticks or Skewers
How to Build a Safe Bonfire Setup
Making s’mores is always fun and meant to be enjoyed! However, safety is key so always follow these tips to ensure everyone has a great time.
1. Choose a Suitable Location
Always build your bonfire at a safe location such as a fire pit. Always clear the location of trees, other hanging branches, and anything else that may catch fire.
2. Prepare Materials Ahead of Time
Remember to always have dry wood, kindling, and matches or a lighter ready before attempting to start a bonfire. It’s also better to avoid harmful chemicals such as lighter fluid.
3. Contain the Fire
Using a fire extinguisher or a bucket of water always nearby can ensure flames are kept under control. Use rocks to surround the fire and be able to contain the fire.
4. Always Supervise
Make sure an adult is with the kids while keeping an eye on the fire and enforcing proper safety rules at all times.
How to Make S’mores
And there you have it! Follow these steps for golden-brown, gooey s’mores.
1. Safe roasting and toasting of marshmallows
Skewer your marshmallow on the roasting stick and toast it to your liking by holding it over the fire. Rotate it slowly till it’s golden brown or charred crispy.
2. Putting the s’more together
Take a graham cracker and place a piece of chocolate on it. Top it with the toasted marshmallow, and place another graham cracker on top. Gently press to melt the chocolate and squish the marshmallow.
3. Savoring s’mores
Warm marshmallows are a delight. Savor your creation while its fresh, but don’t forget the napkins.
4. Use your imagination
Let your creativity flow by trying out different flavored marshmellows, topping them with strawberries or swapping in peanut butter cups instead of chocolate.
Experience the Wonders of Summer with Loved Ones
Starting summer break with loved ones can be fun. Crafting a glowing Spongebob Squarepants art piece or laughing at the s’mores bonfire are sure to add moments of joy.
Why stop there? With summer just beginning, experiment with new activities, new recipes, and create traditions to cherish for years.
Which will you try first? Share your ideas in the comment section.
