Whether playing on vacation or enjoying a staycation, there are fun summer family activities all around you (and most not requiring batteries or chargers!). Need inspiration for the cottage or just at home with Camp Mom?

Here are a few activities which are high on fun and low on cost:

Feet power! Bike, wagon, stroller … do an activity that requires feet power. Not only is it a good family-friendly physical activity it also allows you to visit local parks and trails.

Red and white scavenger hunt: Show your Canadian pride by searching out items that match the colours in our flag. White popcorn, red flowers, white clouds, red Jell-O.  It’s a do-anywhere activity!

Breakfast for dinner. After a hot day of vacation-ing … sometimes the easiest and fastest way to make dinner is to make breakfast.  Breakfast can be nutritious, filling and fast when you incorporate the four food groups. And it’s kinda fun too.

Think outside the swimming pool. Water is a great way to cool off and you can get creative in your water play. Visit a lake, check out a splash pad, soak each other with sponges.  Just remember to always supervise children around water!

Be a tourist. Staycation or vacation – take the time to be a tourist and visit the sites during the summer.  From exploring a fort to touring a science centre – there are things to do in every corner of the country.

Don’t forget to enjoy some “me time” during your summer vacation.  It’s okay to read a book during nap time instead of doing the laundry. Go ahead and book a sitter for a well-deserved date night. Get up earlier than the kids so you can write the next chapter of the book you’ve been dying to write. Summer fun is for everyone – so don’t feel guilty to book some time for yourself in the summer schedule.

Caroline Fernandez shares family friendly activities and tips on her site Parent Club.