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Summer in Greater Lansing is pure magic with little ones—long days, sunny adventures, and plenty of ways to play. If you’re looking for fun for kids 5 and under, there’s so much to explore.
From structured favorites like Sporties for Shorties through Meridian Township and the imaginative Preschool Summer Camp at Magic of Play Preschool, to easy, everyday outings, this blog post has you covered. We’re highlighting the best splash pads, playgrounds, libraries, nature trails, and farmers markets to keep your days simple, fun, and full of memories.
Whether you’re planning ahead or heading out on a whim, here’s your go-to list for a joyful, easygoing summer.
**Sponsored by: Meridian Township and Magic of Play Preschool
Summer Activities for Ages 5 and Under:
Sporties for shorties
Meridian Township’s Sporties for Shorties is a program designed to develop your child’s coordination and spark their interest in sports! Coach Mike Devlin teaches the kids how to play soccer, t-ball, football, and track and field. Sporties for Shorties is offered from April to October and takes place on the soccer fields behind Central Park Pavilion (5151 Marsh Road, Okemos).
Preschool Summer Camp
Magic of Play offers an outdoor, nature-based summer camp for children ages 18 months to 6 years. Through hands-on sensory play and outdoor exploration, children will grow in confidence, curiosity, and creativity. Campers will enjoy woodland walks, identifying animal tracks, read alouds, gardening, art, music, and movement. We have 3 acres of wooded wetlands, fenced in play areas, and a beautiful new facility for any time spent indoors. Magic of Play offers 2 or 4 day weekly camp sessions with low ratios and loving, experienced teachers.
Other Summer Activities for Children 5 and Under
- Michigan 4H Children’s Garden Summer Fun Series
- Tee’s for Tots at Meridian Sun Golf Club
- Capital Area District Library Summer Reading Challenge
- Yoga & Soccer Class at Capital City Athletic
- GymKind Gymnastics Summer Camp
- Dance Campat in Motion Dance Center
- Summer Preschool at Fenner Nature Center Preschool
- Summer Camp at Caterpillar Corner
- MSU Community Music School Early Childhood Classes
- Learn to Skate at Biggby Coffee Ice Cube
Lansing Area Littles strives to keep our resource blog up to date with helpful Greater Lansing resources for families. If you know of a summer program for kids 5 and younger that should be included, we’d love to hear from you! Please reach out through our contact page so we can continue adding your recommendations and keeping this space as helpful and current as possible. Thank you for helping us stay informed and supporting local families in our community!
