The heat is on and summer is here. It is also vacation time so most of moms are now on the lookout for fun and budget friendly summer activities for kids that could pre-occupy the kids around the house.<\/p>\n

I will be doing a series on how to keep kids cool this summer \u2013 of course on a budget!<\/p>\n

First in line are cool drinks and snacks that kids can make.<\/p>\n

Here are five cool beverages and snacks that will not only quench their thirst, it will also keep them busy and who knows, might instill a joy in cooking:<\/p>\n

1. Traditional Ice Candy \u2013 Mommies, we are all familiar with the one peso each ice candy. We can re-create this experience for our kids and all we need are ice candy cellophane for the ice candy, plus juice. If you have extra food color then throw them in too! The kids will have a lot of fun mixing the juice up, putting fruit bits into the ice candy bag, adding drops of food color, and of course funneling the juice into the cellophane! Easy to do, yummy to eat!<\/p>\n

2. Make Fruit Slushes or Shakes \u2013 This is one of the best summer activities for kids, simpl because adults love sipping these kinds of chill bevs too! Using over ripe fruits sold in markets and groceries, why not make icy fruit shakes for the kids. Allow them to help by giving them tasks like spooning out the mangoes, or peeling the dalandan!<\/p>\n

3. \u201cSa Malamig\u201d \u2013 Let your kids experience this drink by buying buco from your friendly vendor. Give the kids the opportunity to help you transfer the buco juice into your pitcher or bowl. Allow them too to help you get buco strips, and mix the drink in the pitcher or punch bowl. Don\u2019t forget the ice cubes, and a bit of sugar too!<\/p>\n