Camp Shine: Get outside idea #1 - Bubbles, bubbles, bubbles

Over the warm, sunny Memorial Day weekend, we were able to spend ample time outdoors. And without a doubt, a favorite moment (replicated over and over) was watching the kids blow bubbles around the backyard.

If you're looking to stock up on summer vacation essentials to keep the kids busy, I dig the "No-Spill Big Bubble Bucket" (US$8, toysrus.com) by the company, Little Kids. It's large enough to hold a good amount of bubble mix and sturdy enough to withstand being dropped on the patio or driveway time and again. It comes with three wands, which are easy for small hands to use. (Bonus: no one feels left out when you have a few kids over to play or siblings sharing the bucket). The large handle makes it easy to take to the park or to a playdate.

And, of course, the bubble mix never spills out.

The only downside is that the bucket does not come with a starter pack of bubbles. But that's an easy problem to solve: you can help the kids make their own bubble solution.

I also think the mini-bubble buckets are really cute. (Okay, fine, I also bought the Backyardigans one for my youngest kid.)

Camp Shine is a regular feature on Shine Parenting. At Camp Shine, you'll find tips, ideas, hacks, and activities to help your kids have fun all summer long. Have a summer activity idea that's fun, easy and budget-friendly? Send it to Charlene at shine_charleneprincebirkeland AT yahoo.com.

More Camp Shine ideas:
Camp Shine: Cooking with kids idea #1 -- DIY strawberry fruit leather