Last-Minute Summer Activities to Make Sweet Memories Before School Starts

Simple, Screen-Free Ways to Savor the Final Days of Summer With Your Kids

As back-to-school creeps closer, many moms feel that bittersweet tug—excitement for routine mixed with nostalgia for the slow, sun-filled days of summer. If you’re looking to squeeze in a few more magical moments before lunch-packing and carpool lines take over, we’ve got you covered.

These activities are easy, low-cost, and focused on connection over perfection. Whether you have a weekend or just a single afternoon, these memory-makers will help you close out summer with joy.



1. Take a Nature Scavenger Hunt Walk

Print or draw a simple scavenger hunt sheet with items like:
• A feather
• A red flower
• A smooth rock
• A butterfly
• Something that smells good

Head to a local park, greenbelt, or your own neighborhood and go exploring. Let your kids lead and take their time. Don’t forget a picnic blanket and snacks for post-hike bonding.



2. Outdoor Painting or Tie-Dye Day

Let your little ones go wild with creativity! Set up:
• Watercolor or finger-paint stations
• Old T-shirts or pillowcases for tie-dye
• Recyclables to turn into “junk art”

Tip: Use the hose or a sprinkler for clean-up and make it part of the fun!



3. Backyard (or Living Room) Campout

If you can’t squeeze in a full vacation, bring the vacation vibe home:
• Roast marshmallows over a firepit or the stove
• Tell stories or play flashlight tag
• Sleep outside in a tent—or make a blanket fort inside
• Stargaze and see who can find the Big Dipper first

Bonus: Let them stay up late just this once.



4. Make a Summer Memory Book

Gather favorite photos from your phone and let your kids help make a little scrapbook (digital or paper). Add:
• Drawings
• Ticket stubs
• Pressed flowers
• A list of favorite summer moments

You’ll treasure this just as much as they do.



5. Plan One “Yes Day”

Choose one day before school starts to let your child plan (within reason) the schedule. Say “yes” to their favorite simple things:
• Pancakes for dinner? Yes.
• Wear pajamas all day? Sure.
• Go to the splash pad again? Absolutely.

It’s not about extravagance—it’s about being fully present and saying yes to fun.



Bonus Idea: “Back-to-School Bucket List”

Sit down and ask:
“What’s one thing we can do together before school starts that would make your heart happy?”

Write down 2–3 answers per child and make it a goal to cross at least one off. This makes them feel heard and gives you intentional time together.



Final Thoughts

These last few days don’t need to be overstuffed or overplanned. The magic often comes in the small, slow moments: sidewalk chalk, bedtime giggles, melting popsicles on the porch.

So pause. Breathe. And soak it up—because these little memories are the ones they’ll carry into the school year.

-Dr. A