Can you feel it? The temperature is rising and we’re finally approaching summer. As the weather gets warmer, it also means your kids will soon be out of school. Without lessons to keep them busy, it’s important to find fun things to keep your little ones’ minds and bodies active throughout the summer.
As pediatric dentists in Naperville, our doctors are experts in making kids smile — and we’re not just talking about when they’re in the dentist chair. Dr. Kadeem Bartley and Dr. Sarah Duchaj have the inside scoop on the best things to do with kids in Naperville, helping you keep your kiddos busy all summer long.
INDOOR ACTIVITIES FOR KIDS IN NAPERVILLE —
Get Summertime Learning at Dupage Children’s Museum
Just because they’re not in school doesn’t mean your children shouldn’t keep learning during the summer. Keep your kids’ knowledge going at the Dupage Children’s Museum. By combining play with learning, the museum will keep even the most restless kiddos entertained for hours. At just $12 a head, it’s the cheapest education in town.
Let Kids Run Wild at Ball Factory Indoor Play
Your kids will have the time of their lives climbing and sliding on the indoor playground at Ball Factory. Since the playground is designed for kids 12 and under, adults and teen siblings are allowed to accompany the kiddos for free. There’s a cafe and free wifi, so parents can even work while their little ones play. Is your child a summer baby? Ball Factory is great for groups and offers kid’s birthday packages.
Catch a Reading at One of Naperville’s Public Libraries
When you’re looking for some downtime with your kids this summer, head over to the nearest library for some relaxing family fun. Naperville is home to three amazing public libraries, all of which offer activities for kids. Yoga, storytime, a book and cookie club — you can’t go wrong when you take your kids to the library. The schedule is updated regularly so always check the website for the most recent programs.
Climb the Tanks at First Division Museum
Teach your kids all about our nation’s military history at First Division Museum in Cantigny Park. The museum is home to 16 military vehicles, from WWI to Desert Storm, and kids are even allowed to climb on the tanks. Admission is always free.
Learn to Code at Codeverse
Coding is one of the fastest-rising fields in the modern world. Get your kids in on the ground floor by giving them access to top-notch early education in coding. Codeverse offers an interactive, creative learning environment, teaching kids all things coding from the basics to advanced concepts. Ready to kickstart your child’s potential future in the world of computer science? Mention this email when you sign up for a special discount!
Tour the Farmhouse Museum at Kline Creek Farm
Take a step into history and tour the rustic farmhouse at Kline Creek Farm. Just 12 miles north of Naperville, this peek at the past is a fun, free activity for kids this summer. Learn all about how the farm worked and the role the farmhouse played in rural activities. No registration necessary — just show up and explore.
Join Storytime at Barnes & Noble
Catch a break from the heat by settling in for weekly storytime at Barnes & Noble. Readings are from 10:30am to 11am on Wednesdays, followed by fun activities for little ones. Storytime is free and is best for infants and toddlers.
Volunteer at Hesed House
Teach your kids the value of giving back to the community by volunteering as a family for a local charity. Hesed House in Aurora is the second largest homeless shelter in Illinois, providing meals, shelter and support for people in need. They accept volunteers on an as-needed basis, so take advantage of the summer months and sign up the whole family.
OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES FOR KIDS IN NAPERVILLE —
Grab a Free Show with Children’s Lunch Hour Entertainment
Tuesdays just got a lot more fun with free, outdoor children’s concerts in Naperville. Held at either Naperville Riverwalk’s Grand Pavilion or Frontier Sports Complex, the shows take place on six Tuesdays throughout June and July. Concerts begin at 11:30am and run for about 45 minutes. Come 10 minutes early for a bonus book reading!
Monkey Around at Sensory Garden Playground
Sensory Garden is an accessible, inclusive playground designed to be enjoyed by all. It’s a barrier-free space that supports cognitive, social and physical development through play. There are Play Days all summer long so bring your kids for face painting, readings and more.
Soak Up Some Sun at 31st Street Beach
It wouldn’t be summer if you didn’t catch some rays at the beach. Head into Chicago for a relaxing afternoon of sun and sand at 31st Street Beach. Pack a lunch, suit up the kids and bring a book for you. While the kids splash around and build sandcastles, you can enjoy some well-deserved downtime.
Fish for Father’s Day with Dad
Father’s Day is on Sunday, June 16th, this year. What better way to celebrate dad than by spending the day fishing with his kids? Registration is only $10 and kids over eight years old are welcome to sign up. Visit their website for more information.
Take a Nature Walk Through the Forest Preserves in Dupage County
Dupage County is home to 60 stunning forest preserves. With almost 26,000 acres and 145 miles of trails to explore, there’s no easier way to get outside with your kids this summer. The Forest Preserves are open every day from one hour after sunrise until one hour after sunset.
Sunbathe at Centennial Beach
Everyone’s favourite swimming hole is the perfect place to take the kids this summer. Complete with diving boards, beach volleyball, water slides and more, your little ones will want to spend the whole day splashing around. Bring a picnic and soak up some sun while your kids play. Just a five minute walk from our pediatric dentistry office in Naperville, Centennial is part beach, part pool and all around fun for the whole family.
Learn All About Farming at Kline Creek Farm
Already been to the Farmhouse Museum at Kline Creek Farm? Take your kids’ farmstead learning one step further at Farm Chores for Kids. Your children will learn how kids back in the day helped out around the farm. Classes run every hour from 1:30pm to 3:30pm on Mondays and Thursdays. Check the link above for an up-to-date schedule. Registration is free.
Ride the Covered Wagon at St. James Farm
Who said tractor rides were only for the fall? At St. James Farm, you and the kiddos can enjoy 30-minute rides on Wednesdays throughout the summer. There are three rides a day, at 12pm, 12:45pm and 1:30pm. Under fivers are free and tickets for everyone else are just $5. Be sure to check the Dupage Forest calendar of events for details.
