Summer vacation is around the corner and most parents especially at-home mothers must be horrified at the thought of having kids in the house 24×7. It is difficult to engage the kids in summer and try to match to their expectations.

Travelling and visiting elders and grand parents is the best alternative but may not always be possible. However, here are some of the ideas which you can try out.

• The local public library has very good programs for kids during summer vacation. the reading programs and book bunch clubs encourage kids to read as well as socialize with others. The best part of the program is it is absolutely free and there is no charge involved.
• The local swimming camps coupled with Red Cross and YMCA offer swimming sessions at a reasonable rate. They can charge a nominal amount of $48 per an eight class session. Blackhawk college has some summer youth camps for youth ages ranging from 8 to 18 years. These classes include pottery, writing, lego games, Stage performance and so on.




• You can send them to summer camps at YMCA and at Abe Lincoln. These are a little expensive but include camps with families which may be a wonderful experience with your family.
• You can send them to East Moline Christian School for summer school. They charge $175 for half day (8 am to 11.30 am) and $300 for full day (8 am to 3 pm) apart from $45 registration fees. The charges are higher but the coaching and the teachers provide support for your child’s academic development.
• The Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy (IMSA) has summer programs for children in grades third to tenth. These programs are great to encourage children to learn mathematics and science. The programs cost $250 for five full day sessions from 8am to 3pm. It is a day session. So, you have to pick and drop your kid daily.
• You may check out other local events and take your kids to the event. The Rock river music festival and the tug fest are two great events and offer a new perspective for children.
• The public parks offer a variety of programs such as movie in the park or bike race or one mile family walk which are great for family fun.
• Summer 2010 has many new upcoming movies releasing which are fun to watch with family and children.
• You can visit places such as Wisconsin Dells, St. Louis, Mt. Rushmore or Washington DC or any nearby attractions which will be educational and entertaining for the entire family.
• You can encourage the kids to learn a new language or pick up an activity book from Brain Quest to pass their time in a productive manner.