Summer is a time of fun and relaxation but also an opportunity to get things done around the house. With the kids almost home from school, it's the perfect time to tackle those well-overdue home projects that have been on your to-do list for far too long. Here are three ideas for home projects that you can tackle with the help of your extra hands and some fun ways to keep the kids entertained along the way!
Create an Outdoor Oasis
Summer is the perfect time to enjoy your outdoor space with friends and family, but if it's looking a little worse for wear (especially after these harsher Colorado storms), it's time to spruce it up! While the kids clean up old twigs and leaves and get their hands dirty, why not involve them in exciting design projects that instantly transform your outdoor space?
One great idea is to create a cozy outdoor seating area by adding comfortable chairs or a bench with colorful cushions and throw pillows. You can even let them choose the colors and patterns that match their personalities! Adding a stylish outdoor rug can also create a cozy atmosphere and let the kids get involved by helping with the measurements and placement. Promise a movie night with their favorite snacks and popcorn (possibly with a new projector?) to celebrate their hard work and new outdoor retreat to get them to join in on the nitty-gritty hard work.
If you have a deck or patio, consider staining or painting it with the help of your little ones to give it a fresh new look. They can assist with the prep work, like sanding (depending on their age and safety!), cleaning, and even choosing the color or design. Potted plants or flowers can also bring color and life to your outdoor space. Let the kids help select which plants to add and give them the responsibility of watering them. ;)
Update Your Kitchen
The kitchen is indeed the heart of the home, where family and friends come together to cook, eat, and socialize. But if your kitchen is outdated, it can be difficult to enjoy spending time there. So, why not make the most of having the kids home during the summer and involve them in a kitchen renovation project?
Safety first: Before starting any kitchen renovation project, it's essential to ensure the space is safe for the kids. Ensure all the tools and materials are stored safely and the work area is clear of any hazards. Consider covering the floors with drop cloths to protect them from spills or stains. Also, involve the kids in safety discussions and educate them about the hazards of working in the kitchen.
Plan the project: Involve the kids in the planning process. Discuss the changes you want to make in the kitchen and ask for their input. Let them help you choose the new countertops, backsplash, or cabinet colors. Giving them a say in the project will make them feel involved and invested in the renovation.
Assign tasks: Depending on their age and skill level, assign tasks to the kids that are safe and age-appropriate. For example, they can help clean the work area, sand cabinets, or paint walls. This will give them a sense of accomplishment and keep them occupied while you tackle the more complex tasks.
Celebrate the finished product: Once the kitchen renovation project is complete, celebrate the finished product with the kids. Have a family meal or throw a party with their friends in the new space. This will give them a sense of pride in their work and possibly even encourage them to take ownership in keeping it clean!
Create a Home Office
With many people still working from home, having a dedicated workspace is more important than ever. If you've been putting off creating a home office, this is a great time to do it. Get the kids to paint the walls, assemble furniture, and organize the space. Set up a DIY project station or science experiment area to keep them entertained. You'll have a beautiful new workspace, and the kids will enjoy creating and learning!
Now that you have some ideas for home projects to tackle this summer, it's time to start! But don't forget to have fun along the way. Consider offering rewards for their hard work to keep the kids entertained and motivated. A pizza party, a day at the pool, or a movie night could entice them to get creative and motivated to step outside the box. Or, you could set up a points system where the kids earn points for completing tasks and can trade them in for rewards at the end of the week. Whatever you do, make sure you're having fun and creating memories that will last a lifetime.