School’s out for summer — once upon a time, these words filled your heart with glee. Now, they don’t exactly strike dread in your soul, but they definitely make you a little antsy. After all, now that school is, indeed, out for summer (though thankfully not forever), it’s on you to keep your kids entertained. It’s only a matter of time before you hear that inevitable cry: “I’m bored.”
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Fortunately for you and your kids — and the peace of your home — you’re a regular at the local Dollar Tree. You’ll find what you need to keep your kids engaged all summer long, without breaking the bank. From water fights to rainy-day puzzles and hands-on crafts, these boredom-busters bring big fun for just a few bucks.
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1. Outdoor Fun H2O Blasters Floating Water Toys: $1.25
You don’t need a Super Soaker to host a super cool water fight — not when your kids can launch a soak attack with a shark, a green alligator, or a blue whale. These H2O blasters draw in and spray water from the pool, beach, or even the bathtub. Naturally, little ones will love them. But not-so-little ones may also not-so-secretly love them too.
2. Outdoor Fun Splash-N-Swim Pool Noodle Chairs: $1.25
Summertime is pool time, and whether your kids want to float and read or just hang out and relax, they’ll want to do it comfortably. These floating chairs are easy to make using this mesh seat and a pool noodle, which you can also find at Dollar Tree for $1.25. It’s a budget-friendly DIY that lets kids lounge in the pool for hours — no inflating required.
3. Puzzlebug Puzzles: $1.25
Puzzles are a classic screen-free way to pass the time. They encourage spatial reasoning, logic, and your creativity — and are perfect for rainy afternoons or quiet mornings. Puzzlebug puzzles come in a variety of designs, from adorable puppies and colorful gumball machines to outer space scenes and majestic white tigers. Most puzzles include 300 pieces, ideal for older kids and families to complete together.
4. Assorted Sunny Crew Mosaic Craft Kits: $3.00
These mosaic craft kits offer a fun and mess-contained way for children to express their creativity. Each kit comes with different designs, mosaic tiles, paint, and markers, making it easy and affordable to get started. Kids can make everything from stepping stones and firefly lanterns to miniature cactus sculptures — no special tools required.
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5. Crafter’s Square Laser Sea Animal Craft Boards, 6-ct. Packs: $1.25
Bring a splash of the sea into your crafting time with these sea animal craft boards. Paint them, stain them, or cover them in glitter — there are so many fun ways your child can bring their ocean-themed art to life. Each kit contains multiple assorted sea creatures, giving your aspiring artist or marine biologist (or both) a chance to design their own underwater habitat. It’s a low-mess, high-imagination project perfect for summer afternoons.
Editor’s note: Pricing and availability may vary depending on location.
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This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: 5 Summer Boredom-Busters Parents Should Buy at Dollar Tree Before They Sell Out
