Remember the days when summer break meant endless adventures and the only “screen time” we cared about was Saturday morning cartoons? If you’re looking for simple, old-school ways to soak up the sunshine with your kiddos, let’s take it back to basics and have an 80’s and 90’s kid style nostalgic summer!
Here are 5 easy, nostalgic summer fun activities perfect for moms and kids (and zero complicated Pinterest supplies needed)!
1. Hit the Streets on Two Wheels
Nothing says “summer freedom” like hopping on your bike and seeing where the neighborhood takes you. Pop some baseball cards in the spokes (for that oh-so-satisfying clickety-clack sound!), grab your helmets, and hit the sidewalk. Whether you’re exploring new streets or racing down the driveway, riding bikes is an instant mood booster—bonus points if you end the adventure with a stop for ice cream!
My favorite “mom bike” is the Huffy Beach Cruiser!
2. Make a Splash
Swimming is a summer rite of passage. Whether it’s the local pool, a lake, or even one of those neon-colored plastic kiddie pools in the backyard, there’s just something pure about diving in on a hot day. Bring on the cannonballs, handstand contests, and—dare I say—the ever-classic Marco Polo.
Pro tip: Moms, don’t be afraid to rock those retro swimsuits. The ’’80’s and 90s are officially vintage now.
3. Bubble Bonanza
Who could forget the magic of bubbles? Pick up a bottle (or make your own with dish soap and water), head outside, and see who can blow the biggest bubble. Want to really wow your kids? Grab a coat hanger and some string for some mega-bubbles. Don’t forget to chase them down, wild and giggling, just like you did back in the day.
We love these bubble wands! They are easy, cheap and great for all the kids to share!
4. Chalk it Up
Sidewalk chalk isn’t just for hopscotch (though, let’s be honest, nobody ever really finishes a game without getting sidetracked). Take over the driveway with colorful masterpieces, design an obstacle course, or leave sweet notes for your neighbors. Let your creativity run wild—bonus points for rainbow doodles and classic ’90s smiley faces.
These chalk paint rollers are a game changer for moms hands!
5. Board Games—Rain or Shine
Got a stormy afternoon, or just need some shade? Pull out the old-school board games like Candy Land, Sorry!, or Uno. (Wild card fights, anyone?) Gather around the table, grab some snacks, and let the friendly competition begin. Of course, someone will try to sneak extra turns, but that’s just part of the fun.
The best part about these throwback summer activities? They’re just as fun now as they were in the glory days of scrunchies and slap bracelets. So go on, relive a little childhood magic—because summer is meant for memory-making.
Now, where did I put my Lisa Frank trapper keeper…?
