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32+ Summer Boredom Buster Printables

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Bust the boredom over the summer break with these 32+ ideas that you can print out, cut, and put in jar or on popsicle sticks. When someone says “I’m bored” you will always have something for them to do!

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From fizzy reactions to colorful creations, this list of 19+ science experiments is packed with exciting, hands-on fun. They’re super easy to set up, totally kid-approved, and a great way to sneak a little learning into playtime!

Be sure to also grab our Free Printable Science Experiment Worksheet (Scientific Method) to document all of the findings for each science project!

🌟Don’t Leave Before You Check Out These Fun Ideas!🌟

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✅How to Use These Boredom Busters

One of the easiest ways to make these activities accessible all summer long is to turn them into a boredom buster jar! Simply print out the list or write each idea on a popsicle stick, fold it up, and place it into a jar or box. When your child says “I’m bored,” let them pull a surprise activity from the jar. You can color-code sticks by type (indoor, outdoor, creative, quiet time, etc.) or keep it totally random for extra fun. This DIY boredom jar is a great visual reminder that there’s always something fun to do—and it encourages independence, too!

If you’re short on time, just grab our free printables or copy these ideas into your own summer planner. The goal is to make having fun simple, spontaneous, and stress-free.

Make a Craft

Kids love making something with their hands. From paper plate projects to recycled creations, crafting builds fine motor skills and gets the imagination going.

Read a Book

Encourage quiet time by setting up a cozy reading nook with pillows and favorite picture books. Visit your local library or reread old favorites together.

Create a Summer Bucket List

Sit down with your child and dream up all the fun things they want to do this summer. It’s a great way to set intentions and plan ahead for boredom-free days.
✅Printable Summer Bucket List for Kids

Do an Experiment

Make science exciting with hands-on activities. Explore color mixing, reactions, and the scientific method in fun, kid-friendly ways.

Draw a Picture of Yourself

Self-portraits are a fun way to build self-esteem and see how kids view themselves.

Bake Cookies

Kids can help measure, mix, and decorate—plus they get to enjoy a sweet reward at the end.

Make Bubble Wands

Turn pipe cleaners and beads into fully functional bubble wands and head outside for hours of fun!

Play a Game

Family game night is a great way to reconnect. Try printable games like summer bingo and family feud with a summer twist.

Have a Talent Show

Put on a family talent night with songs, tricks, and silly acts. It’s a fun way to celebrate what makes everyone unique.

Go on a Scavenger Hunt

Scavenger hunts are SO much fun and we have several for you to choose from!

6 printable camping and campground scavenger hunts.

Build a Fort

Gather blankets, pillows, and chairs to create a cozy hideaway. Use the fort as a reading nook, movie theater, or snack hut.

Make a Batch of Slime

Stretchy, squishy fun that kids can mix and customize with glitter, color, or texture. Great for sensory seekers.

Learn About Dinosaurs

Read books, draw pictures, or create dinosaur habitats from blocks or natural items to bring prehistoric creatures to life.

Do Something Nice for Someone

A sweet boredom buster with a kindness twist. Draw a card, help a sibling, or make a treat for a neighbor.

Have a Dance Party

Turn up your favorite playlist and get those wiggles out. Add glow sticks or balloons for extra fun.

Make Play Dough

Try a no-cook play dough recipe and give kids cookie cutters, stamps, and rollers for open-ended play.

Write a Letter to a Friend

Practice handwriting and stay connected by mailing a card or short letter to a cousin, grandparent, or best friend.

Wash the Car or Bicycle

Give kids a sponge, bucket, and hose—instant summer fun that’s helpful too!

Paint Rocks & Hide Them in the Neighborhood

Paint cheerful pictures or messages on rocks and leave them on a trail or by a mailbox to brighten someone’s day.

Play in a Sensory Bin

Create a hands-on activity with rice, beans, or cloud dough. Add scoops, funnels, and toys for endless engagement.

Play Pretend Vet Clinic

Set up a space to care for stuffed animals. Use cotton balls, Band-Aids, and craft sticks to treat their “patients.”

Play Hide and Seek

A classic game that works indoors or outside. Great for groups or one-on-one parent play.

Do an Ice Activity

Freeze small toys in bowls of water and give kids squirt bottles or droppers to free them. Science and sensory fun combined.

Watch a Movie

Turn a regular movie into an event with popcorn, tickets, and homemade blankets on the floor.

Do a Puzzle

Choose age-appropriate puzzles to boost problem-solving and focus. Try printable ones for something new.

Make S’mores

Use a fire pit, oven, or even a microwave to make this classic summer treat.

Make Something Out of Legos

Challenge kids to a Lego build: tallest tower, summer scene, or dream animal.

Make a Summer Journal

Keep memories alive with a simple notebook. Let kids draw, write, or paste in keepsakes.

Write a Story or Comic Book

Encourage storytelling with blank paper, colored pencils, and imagination. Let them be the author and illustrator.

Make a Time Capsule

Fill a box or jar with special items, letters, or photos to open at the end of summer—or next year. See how we made our NYE time capsule!

Play Farmer’s Market

Use toy fruits, handmade signs, and pretend money to shop and sell. Great for dramatic play and early math skills.

✅Get the Free Boredom Buster Jar Printables

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