By Ashley Cloninger

I can guess that many of you may not want summer to end and some fantastic vacations plans were shelved due to COVID 19 – ugh! What to do? Make “forever” memories in these distant times. Memories can be created inside or outside, really anywhere. Here are some creative ideas to get you started on your last hurrah before school starts and summer ends.

The International Space Station App (ISS Spotter) is another app to download.  This app makes it easy for you to know the best forecast and time to see the ISS right from your own backyard.  Not only enjoying the night sky with the family but this also serves as cool way to work in a science lesson.  Fun Fact:  Did you know that the International Space Station orbits the Earth every 90 minutes? 

1. An Evening Under the Stars

Grab a blanket or chair and enjoy the night sky.  For stargazing, the SkyView app is a handy app you can download and point towards at the sky to discover stars and constellations.  Recently a family member purchased an astronomical telescope and was able to take some vibrant photos of the moon.  Of course, after this, all the kids were intrigued.  Even if you don’t have a telescope, kids will love it if you let them use a simple pair of binoculars.

2. Pop Some Popcorn and Make It a Movie Night

With the closure of so many theaters, now is the perfect time to curl up on the couch with a bowl of popcorn and watch a movie – all from the comfort of your own home.  Pick out a new flick or even one from your childhood to bring back all those good feels that you can share with your kids.  With the help of technology, there are new ways to stream movies right at your fingertips.  Just don’t forget the popcorn!  Check out our previous post for movie suggestions and delicious popcorn recipes!

3. Shave Some Ice!

Kids and even adults love to indulge in this sweetness.  Grab a blender, food processor, or a shaved ice machine, if you have one. Whip this cool treat up however you wish.  Your kiddos will love shopping online though several varieties of Hawaiian flavored syrups with catchy names. It is always fun to see what everyone creates – take a picture to remember the moment!

4. Have an Old-Fashioned Family Game Night

Am I the only one who did not realize that Dominos was an actual game?  Surely, I am not alone in the thought that domino pieces were meant to be stood up to only watch them fall down.  Our family recently dusted off this classic game once the rules were explained.  We played or should I say “competed” for hours!  My daughter literally begs to play now.  Dominos is great because it encourages math skills and strategic thinking.  I personally enjoy it because of the screen-free time and family moments that are created, but any board game will do!  Make sure you have a camera handy for bragging rights! 

5. Create an Escape Room

Create one of the latest crazes right in your own home.  You and your team of players will work together to discover clues, solve puzzles and tasks to reach a specific goal in a set amount of time.  If you enjoy puzzles and challenges this is perfect for your family and encourages critical thinking skills in your children.  This one does require a little additional work beforehand for set up and clue placement.  If you’re not into creating clues, Amazon has pre-made escape room versions that make for an easier room set up.