Summer is here and school will soon be out. Many parents are looking for economical way to keep the kids busy. There are many ways to enjoy time together as a family without the distraction and passive entertainment of electronic media.

Ideally, spending time with the family should be fun, but include an educational element. There are many psychological benefits to turning off the TV and video games in order to entice the kids outdoors for some fresh air and new adventure.

Here are some great choices for the whole family in our community:

Grow a garden in your backyard. Kids love to watch things grow whether it be flowers or vegetables. Children are more likely to eat vegetables that they helped grow themselves. If you don’t have a yard or just lack the space, participate in the Federal Way Community Garden. Volunteers are always welcome. www.federalwaycommunitygarden.org

Read books instead of watching TV. The Federal Way Regional Library opened this month after a year of renovation. What better way to get your kids interested in reading than a trip to the library for some new books.? Ask a librarian for assistance if you are at a loss regarding books for your child. They are knowledgeable, friendly and able to point you in the right direction. Federal Way Regional Library, 34200 1st Way South. (253) 838-3668.

Go on a picnic. Organizing a picnic is a relaxing and economical way to share a meal outdoors with the family while combining the beauty of the outdoors. Your children will have many fond memories of picnics spent together and there are many locations to choose from in Federal Way. Two of my favorite locations to picnic include Steel Lake Park, 2410 S. 312th St., and Celebration Park, at 11th Place South and South 324th Street.

Learn something new. The Federal Way Community Center, 876 S. 333rd St., is a great place to sign up for classes, anything from guitar lessons to belly dancing. Find out your child’s interests and encourage them to try something new this summer. Allow your child to explore their natural talents. (253) 835-6900.

Visit the Highline Community College MaST aquarium at Redondo. Admission is free to the public and you will be glad you stopped for a visit. There is a touching tank and regular octopus feedings. The aquarium is only open from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturdays and is located next to Salty’s Restaurant in Redondo.

There are many activities to choose from in your area. Federal Way provides multiple options for having fun and keeping the kids occupied this summer. I hope that you enjoy these ideas for summer.