Although summer may start with a bang, it may not be too long before kids are uttering the dreaded, “I’m bored,” leaving parents and caregivers looking for ways to keep children occupied. Having a list of activities at the ready can help families stay active and engaged during the dog days of summer.

Summertime swimming -Those lucky enough to have a backyard pool have a great source of entertainment right at home. Swimming alone can become monotonous for kids, so work with friends’ parents to devise a schedule that allows the kids to alternate whose house they visit for swimming sessions. Standard games like water volleyball or diving retrieval games can add some fun, but many times, kids are happy to splash and float with friends. Stock a cooler with water, juice, and healthy snacks so kids can just hop out of the water and grab a refreshment, rather than leaving a water-logged trail into the kitchen. Those who do not have a pool can consider joining a local pool, where everyone can mingle with their neighbors. Here are a few in our area:

• Urbana Indoor Aquatic Center,

• Crystal Lake Family Aquatic Center (CLPFAC)

• https://champaignparks.org/places/sholem-aquatic-center/

Host a movie night -The dog days of summer tend to be humid, hot, and sometimes uncomfortable. Scheduling activities for later in the day makes the most of the weather that has cooled off a bit. Purchase or borrow a projector that hooks up to a computer or tablet, and set up a screen in the yard. Stream a family-friendly movie and prepare ready-made bags of popcorn or cotton candy for the show.

Add water to everything – Favorite backyard games can be enhanced with the use of a little water. For example, instead of tossing bean bags for cornhole, fill up water balloons. Kids who are playing tag or games like capture the flag may have to run through a garden sprinkler to get into their opponent’s territory. Poke holes into one pool noodle and feed a garden hose into the end to create a water hazard.

Go on a scavenger hunt – Whether at a park, walking around the neighborhood, or even in your home, families can create a list of objects that must be found. The first child to discover all of the items on the list gets a prize.

Dance in the rain – Summertime is known for the sudden arrival of storms. When a downpour occurs, have the family head into the garage with the door open to catch Mother Nature in action. Take turns briefly running out into the deluge to dance and splash in the rain. Remember … Safety first!