Swim, swing, search ... ride, row, read … When the long summer days become a dilemma for parents who hear “I’m bored” more often than not from their kids, there are plenty of opportunities in the Boothbay and Wiscasset regions to engage the youngsters for a few hours a day … and get them away from their screen time.

For the younger ones, there is Clifford Playground on Back River Road in Boothbay. The newly refurbished facility has slides, swings, climbing bars and more items to burn that pent-up energy. In Wiscasset at 242 Gardiner Road, there is another playground with lots of features for all. New in 2022 is Boothbay Region Land Trust’s at Oak Point Farm headquarters off Samoset Road in Boothbay Harbor. Pack a picnic lunch and have fun!

Like to swim? Hendricks Head Beach on Southport Island, Barrett’s Park on Lobster Cove Road in Boothbay Harbor, and Grimes Cove, Ocean Point in Boothbay are popular salt water swimming areas. Barrett’s Park is also a great place to toss a Frisbee, play Wiffle ball, set up a cornhole game, or just relax in the shade if it gets too warm. The ocean water is colder than those heated pools, but it’s a great way to beat the heat.

Another water-related activity that can be done with parents or guardians is renting a kayak or paddle board from Tidal Transit on Granary Way in Boothbay Harbor. The company provides basic instruction, a life jacket and paddle.

Go for a ride on an excursion boat to see the beauty of the two regions – lighthouses, seals and maybe even a whale. Grab a fishing rod and try to hook a mackerel or bluefish.

Inside activities on the not so pleasant days are available at Boothbay Region YMCA (pool, gym, walking track, etc.) and Wiscasset Community Center (gym, pool, etc). Day fees are charged, but at least it is another way to cure the “I’m bored” syndrome.

Hiking the Boothbay Region Land Trust trails, combing the area shoreline to collect sea glass and observe the creatures that live next to the ocean (crabs, periwinkles, etc.), or flying a kite on an open school field gets kids outside in the fresh air.

Like to climb? Monkey C Monkey Do on Route 1 in Wiscasset is a ropes course with a zip line and special course for those 12 and under. Birthday party packages are also offered.

Visit a local museum, library or Maine State Aquarium in West Boothbay Harbor to expand your knowledge on rainy days. Shop for a new board game or craft set at one of our area businesses. Take a train ride at Boothbay Railway Village Museum or Wiscasset, Waterville & Farmington Railway in Alna, play mini golf at Dolphin Mini Golf in Boothbay – have an ice cream at the neighboring Ice Cream Hut while you’re there.

The regions have tennis and pickleball courts, outdoor basketball hoops, and open fields near the schools … recreation for the whole family!

Enjoy your summer. Check out the Boothbay Register and Wiscasset Newspaper websites for activities and events not listed here or in this magazine’s calendar of events.

Hope you can use these ideas to keep your kids from being bored!