10 Ways to Prepare for Summer Solstice!
What is Summer Solstice?
According to Wikipedia, “The summer solstice occurs when the tilt of a planet’s semi-axis, in either the northern or the southern hemisphere, is most inclined toward the star (sun) that it orbits. Earth’s maximum axial tilt toward the sun is 23° 26′. This happens twice each year, at which times the sun reaches its highest position in the sky as seen from the north or the south pole.”
About.com’s info for Summer Solstice
Old Farmer’s Almanac has more info about Summer Solstice!
1. Crockpot Breakfast/Dinner- beat the summer heat by using a crockpot to cook a meal! Getting up early then make a Crockpot Breakfast. Going to be out most of the day then try a Crockpot Dinner!
2. Sunrise/Sunset- Find out what time your sunrises or sunsets in your area in order to get up early or stay up late. Super fun for kids who usually are not awake at these times:)
3. Stargazing- Have you watched the stars this summer, yet? Well, what are you waiting for? Grab binoculars or a telescope and find a dark area away from street lights this week. Not sure what to look for? Print off a constellation chart or check out some books at the library.
4. Nature Hike and Scavenger Hunt- Maybe you just want to get out and enjoy all the wonderful sun! How about adding fun by doing a scavenger hunt?
At the Beach? No problem check out this printable list from Inspired by Familia:
5. Backyard Camping- My husband and I did NOT grow up camping like some people. We also rarely went on family vacations. I did not want that to be the case with my children. So we bought a tent last Summer to camp in the backyard. The big kids stayed out with and without a parent but the entire family has not.
6. Bonfire- If you have a large enough yard to have a firepit, then be sure to use it! Otherwise find a park or friend’s house that has one to roast weiners and marshmellows!
7. Insect Collecting- We own a few different bug containers, magnifying glasses, and magnifying boxes. Just a variety of tools we have collected over the years from Nature Programs or from the dollar store. You can always poke holes in a peanut butter jar and collect lighting bugs or lady bugs to explore for a short time:)
8. Water Play- Check your local parks and recreation for a FREE water play area or splash pad. Wear plenty of sunscreen and bring lots of healthy snacks and water to drink.
9. Messy Crafts and Science Experiments- Yes, it is time to try some of those messy crafts or Science experiments we have all pinned to do OUTSIDE! Stop pinning and get to doing! Make sure to gather ALL your supplies including clean-up items and directions before you begin. Explain what they should do or just let them loose with paint and instructions!
10. Picnic- Good ole classic Summer activity. When is the last time you packed a picnic with blanket and basket? You can head to the yard or your local park, but be sure to bring some yummy Summer foods like watermelon, pasta salad, or sandwiches.
