DIY Backyard Summer Camp Ideas

Childhood memories of summer are full of fun, exciting memories. Do you find yourself overwhelmed trying to figure out how to replicate this for your own children? Life is busy, keeping your kids entertained and active can be draining, complicated, and exhausting. Summer camps can be a great way to help your child make friends, cultivate interests, and expand their imagination - but they can also be expensive. Today, we’re sharing some tips and ideas to DIY your own backyard summer camp without breaking the bank or exhausting yourself.

photo: summer camps in la

Tip #1

Choose a theme. This could be anything; whether it is a special interest your child has, something they enjoy doing with friends, or something to stretch their imagination. Some common theme ideas include: nature, science, space, or animals.

photo: living on the cheap

Tip #2

You can plan anything you think will interest your child. We recommend trying to include a variety of activities including: a physical activity, craft, snack, scavenger hunt, game, etc.

photo: dallas arboretum

Tip #3

Keep it simple. Don’t over extend yourself and cause extra stress. Sometimes kids have the most fun with extremely simple activities. Your children are going to remember spending time with you, and how you make them feel.

photo: ayla & co

Tip #4

Keep all the materials you need for your DIY camp together in a bag or tote. Putting this all in the same place before the day of your camp will help everything run so much smoother and less stressful for you! We recommend the Ayla Tote Bag to keep all your snacks, crafts, and other supplies in one place!

photo: popville

Tip #5

If you’re feeling overwhelmed at the thought of doing this on your own, reach out to some of your mom friends, or family members. See if they want to take part or be in charge of something specific. Keep in mind this can be as low key as you want it to!

Camp Theme Ideas

Fairies
Olympics
Cooking
Space
Outdoors/Camping
Pirates/Mermaids
Science
STEAM
Animals
Around the world
Superheros
Dinosaurs
Magic
Beach
And many more! Create based on what your child is currently interested in.

DIYing your own summer camp can be a great way to save money, keep your little one entertained, and make lasting memories. Summer camp can be exciting and engaging for children. We hope you enjoy making memories this summer with your little ones! Share with us your DIY summer camp ideas!