Picture perfect

Scavenger hunts are fun, and photo scavenger hunts are even better because they allow you to capture items like A Creepy Bug or Something Gooey without actually having to tote them back home with you. Photojojo has some terrific tips for planning a large-scale scavenger hunt, but you could also use the list from My Kids Adventures to have a snap-happy good time.

Reduce, reuse, recycle

Pete likes to collect recyclables and turn them into buildings, streets and vehicles for his “Trash City.” The city councilors require him to tear it down and rebuild every now and again, mostly so his room doesn’t look too much like a landfill, but that never seems to bother him all that much. The joy is in the construction. Bored Panda and BuzzFeed each feature an impressive compendium of items you can make with recyclables.

Refresh the toy bin

This is definitely the one my kids would vote for, but we aren’t in the habit of buying new toys just to assuage boredom. Wouldn’t it be nice if there were a way to provide some new toys without buying them? Hold on to your hats, because there is! Pley subscription access to more than 400 LEGO sets and other popular toys. Pley packages are delivered to your door, and when the kids are done playing they can return them for a new toy. (And also Pley sponsored this post.)

Working at the car wash

I’ve mentioned before that we’ve had success setting up a mini car wash for the Hot Wheels in our household. I can only imagine the car wash sprinkler from Lowe’s would be an even bigger hit with the kids. It looks like it would take a little time to set up, but your driveway would be the place to be if you had one of these set up. And if you aren’t feeling industrious enough to DIY a kid car wash? Set the kids loose with some soap and sponges on your own car. You’ll have squeaky clean wheels and a happy crew in no time.

Flex your green thumb

It’s not quite time to put plants in the ground where we are, but your small fries could help get your garden heading in the right direction by working on some egg carton seed starters or by turning rocks into garden markers. Not ready to turn your tomato futures over to the kids? Set them loose on their own terrariums!

Disclaimer: This is a sponsored post for the subscription toy service Pley.