Photo Credit: parenthacks.com
For a spin on a summer movie nights, take the big screen outdoors for a night. Whether it's just for your kids or group of their friends, they'll dig catching a flick under the star.
First things first. And this is probably the toughest part. You'll need a projector. And no, they are not cheap. The easiest thing to do is check out audio rental companies in your area where you can rent a projector for a night or weekend at a reasonable cost. I've called a few places in my hood that rent them for US$99 for the weekend. I'm certain you can get one for less. Make sure you tell them you need a basic projector for a backyard movie night. No bells and whistle. You can get one that just hooks up to your laptop and speakers or you can get one that has a built-in DVD player with sound. Either will work, go for what fits your budget. (If you are in the marketg for a projector for family movie night, check out TechMamas post on her picks.)
Okay, next up...the screen. You can play movies from a projector onto an outdoor wall of your home. You can also create a makeshift screen by attach a large piece of white canvas or a sheet to your house. And if you want to get really fancy, you can make a screen like the one in the above photo by following directions posted at Parent Hacks.
The rest is easy. Have the kids help you select an age-appropriate movie and some snacks. If you do it after grilling up dinner, you can make s'mores (my personal favorite). Be you must have popcorn and hot chocolate. Those are backyard movie night essentials. As for seating, a mix of sleeping bags, throw blankets (to sit on and to cover up with) and chairs work well.
Related links on Shine:
Summer kid fun on a budget
Surviving summer break without sending the kids to day camp
Two must-have water-play gadgets under $10 that will keep your kids cool all summer
Keep the kids busy with D.I.Y fun all summer long
Summer Survival: Sidewalk chalk labyrinths
