Keeping Kids Cool On the Suncoast

With temperatures soaring and beaches packed, where is a parent to go with children who are singing in unison, “We’re bored!”?  We have the indoors too cool for school lineup of must-tries when the outdoor sun sends you screaming for indoor, air-conditioned fun.  Though there are a number of inexpensive activities to do in and around Sarasota that will keep the kiddos entertained, we are narrowing our list to just a few to try while the heat is high, and the kids are home. 

Sky Zone and Jumpin Fun Inflata Park

These two are a top of list duo because kids jumping on trampolines equals kids getting tired out.  This is not a terrible thing, in the eyes of a mother.  If I am considering dropping cash at a trampoline park versus a mall, a trampoline park will always win over if the kids are on board.  Though not for your tiny littles, I find these places pique the interests of even young middle schoolers.  With annual, summer, and individual passes available, there are rates available for any outing.  Plus, parties are too easy when at a trampoline park.  Jumping, followed by pizza and cakes, and take the gifts to open at home equals a hassle-free event.  For more information on pricing and hours of operation , please visit Sky Zone Trampoline Park | 200+ Locations | Find one Near You and JFI Park Home – Jumpin Fun Inflata Park.

Public Libraries

The best thing about a library in addition to it being an exceptional place to engage your child in reading and a love of books, is you never have to leave empty handed and what’s in your hand doesn’t cost a dime.  Plus, there is so much more to a library than, the main star of the show, the books.  Several different teens, gaming, chess and book clubs exist to provide kids a safe place to hang out during the summer.  Plus, the libraries bring in guest readers, puppet shows, crafters and more to keep you and your kids cool on a dog day of summer.    Please visit Sarasota County Libraries | Sarasota County, FL (scgov.net) for a list of local libraries, hours, and events offered through summer. 

Sarasota Art Museum

Sarasota Art Museum offers a number of student activities throughout the summer.  From Home – Sarasota Art Museum, 

Your Wednesday Playdates, Wednesdays | 10 am – 12 pm and is Free for Members and Free with Museum Admission at the Peggy A. Hall Classroom, 134

For early learners with an adult, Your Wednesday Playdates deliver an art project led by a professional teaching artist and interactive story times.

Saturday Studios Saturdays | 1 pm – 3 pm is free for Members and free with Museum Admission
Peggy A. Hall Classroom, 134

Saturday Studios are inspired by works of art in Sarasota Art Museum’s special exhibitions. These drop-in studio workshops are designed for children and their families and caregivers and are open to all ages.

Free Second Sundays at SAM, Second Sundays 11 am – 4 pm are free for ALL!
Peggy A. Hall Classroom, Linda & Dick Dickinson Ceramics Classroom, Sarah F. Huisking Classroom

From 11 am – 4 pm every Second Sunday, The Studios at SAM is open for exploring and hands-on art-ful activities! For families and people of all ages, Open Studios provides drop-in art projects, the chance to explore our art spaces and the opportunity to meet our Museum Educators and Teaching Artists!

Photos courtesy of Sarasota Art Museum